Melbourne coach Dean Bailey said it is essential that his team shows a marked improvement in Sunday's AFL match against Hawthorn.

The unbeaten Hawks started their eight-game winning streak in round one when they smashed Melbourne by more than 100 points.

The two teams meet again at the MCG and Bailey said the Demons must show they have improved from their uncompetitive performance at the start of the season.

While the Hawks are flying, Melbourne have won only once and Adelaide beat them badly last weekend.

It is a big week for the club, with Demon's legend David Neitz announcing his retirement because of a neck injury.

Bailey said one of the great disappointments for his players is they will not have one last chance to play alongside Neitz, a much admired and respected player in the league.

Bailey added that experienced players Adem Yze and Matthew Whelan had shown good form for Sandringham in the VFL when he was asked about possible changes to the senior line up.

© 2008 AAP
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