MATTHEW Pavlich's legend will only grow over time after he went out in style with a win in his final game on Sunday, coach Ross Lyon says.

The Dockers put aside a horrific 2016 season to finish with a victory for their talisman over the finals-bound Western Bulldogs.

Pavlich kicked his 700th career goal in the first term and finished with 20 disposals, 10 marks and 1.3.

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Save for some inaccurate kicking, Lyon said it was a great way to bow out.

"I think over time the legend will only grow, won't it?" Lyon said post-match. 

"He goes out with petrol in the tank, which is the way it should be. He has carried himself exceptionally well and he has been a wonderful leader.

It's a nice way to finish."

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Long-time teammate Aaron Sandilands said the players were pleased to get the win for Pavlich.

"He's going to be sorely missed by the whole playing group," Sandilands told AFL.com.au.

"Words can't describe him really. He's such an important part of this footy club and he's held in such high regard. I think the guys showed that by the way they played today." 

Even Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge was full of admiration for Pavlich.

"It's a big day for the Dockers and a big day for Matthew Pavlich and our club would like to acknowledge, recognise, pay tribute to him, his effect on the game, his contribution over such a significant period of time," Beveridge said. 

"Obviously, he has been an amazing leader for this football club and we admire him greatly and we wish him all the best for the future."

WATCH: Pav says goodbye 

Lyon said the atmosphere at Domain Stadium when Pavlich ran through the banner for the last time reminded him of the finals the Dockers have played in recent seasons. 

Pavlich did a lap of honour after the win to acknowledge the 34,000 fans that remained to see him chaired from the ground through a guard of honour.

Pavlich leaves the game with 353 matches and 700 goals to his name. The six-time best and fairest winner and six-time All Australian joins Kevin Bartlett and Bernie Quinlan as the only players in VFL/AFL history to play more than 350 games and kick 700 goals.

WATCH: Ross Lyon's full post-match press conference