IMPROVEMENT remains the focus for Melbourne coach Mick Stinear, despite a dominant display over the GIANTS on Saturday afternoon.
The Demons recorded their fifth win of the season in classic Casey Fields conditions, working the wind to register six majors to one, GWS’ only score coming in the final minutes of the game.
It was another impressive showing on Melbourne’s home deck – the Dees have won their past 11 matches at the ground – but not without room to grow in the eyes of the coach.
When asked how his side, who has just one blemish in season 2022, can continue to evolve, Stinear said it all came down to consistency in effort.
“The girls started well, and then the second quarter could’ve gone either way,” Stinear said in his post-match press conference.
“GWS lifted, and the game sort of spent majority between the arcs, with no one really taking ascendency. That’s where we need our mids to work a little bit harder.
“They definitely did in the first quarter and quarters three and four, but that’s probably our growth – not to give an opportunity to a team to be able to get into the game.
“It was good to see the group evolve from last week and we’re happy with where things are at, at the moment, but still have plenty to work on.”
After two goals in the opening term and just a behind in the second, the Demons came out with a refined focus after the half-time break, hitting the visitors with more speed and aggression.
Their contest work stood strong, which saw them finish with 39 more contested possessions and generate opportunity around the ground.
First-year Demon Eliza West led the charge, clocking up 20 disposals, six tackles and six clearances, while Rising Star Tyla Hanks was stellar on return, taking on a defensive role and still having a solid impact.
Up forward, the work of Tayla Harris (two goals), Kate Hore (two goals), Daisy Pearce and Shelley Scott reflected on the scoreboard, with plenty of others playing their role for the team.
“We had seven players go through the forward line today and they’re complementing each other really well,” Stinear said.
“Megan Fitzsimon is doing great work at ground level. Alyssa Bannan keeps getting better each week. I thought Jackie Parry had her best game for the year and Tayla (Harris), to her credit, she just keeps staying in games.
“She just keeps competing and doesn’t force anything. She’s getting rewarded with goals, but also creating opportunities for others as well.”
Melbourne will now rest and recover, in preparation to fly to Queensland to meet Brisbane on Monday 21 February.
The battle with the reigning premiers will take place at Metricon Stadium and is set to kick off at 6.10pm local time (7.10pm AEDT).
