After missing our on last year's finals series in agonising fashion, Bernie Vince is believes it's a case of now or never for himself and several other Melbourne veterans yet to taste finals success.
Entering his 13th season in the AFL, Vince committed to a one-year extension with the club at the end of last season and is hungrier than ever to achieve when it matters most in 2018.
"You're not sure how long you have left in footy when you get to my age," Vince said on Monday.
"You get impatient ... these young guys coming through, although they're disappointed, they probably have a long time to make up for it.
"But guys like myself, Jordan Lewis and Nathan Jones, we're at an age where we get a little bit impatient and we want results now.
"We think we've set ourselves up really well."
While Lewis understands the feeling of tasting premiership glory, Vince and Jones certainly do not, with Jones - like Melbourne - not having played in a final since 2006, Jones' first year in the league.
After starting their season with an AFLX title and a strong 53-point win over North Melbourne in the JLT Community Series opener, Vince says there's a sense of optimism about the group this year.
"You're not sure how long you have left in footy when you get to my age," Vince said on Monday.
"You get impatient ... these young guys coming through, although they're disappointed, they probably have a long time to make up for it.
"But guys like myself, Jordan Lewis and Nathan Jones, we're at an age where we get a little bit impatient and we want results now.
"We think we've set ourselves up really well."
Vince understands his spot, like any other, isn't guaranteed in Melbourne's best 22, but thrives on the pressure of competition within the squad.
"There's pressure on all players," Vince said.
"I feel pressure every year I've played. You always want to play at the top level so if I'm in form I'll play, and same with everyone else."
Vince impressed with 18 touches at a healthy 83.3% efficiency against the Kangaroos on Saturday.
