A STRONG start was on the wish list for Mick Stinear on Saturday night – and that’s exactly what Melbourne’s senior coach got.
The Demons, who entered the top-tier clash with North Melbourne off a four-day break, managed to set the tone early at Casey Fields, kicking two of their four goals in the opening term.
While elements of the game weren’t always on the Dees’ terms, consistent effort and adaptability proved the difference, helping Melbourne record its seventh victory of the season.
“We wanted to start well, so that was really important for us,” Stinear said in his post-match press conference.
“But it was just a good four-quarter effort. There were periods where North had us covered for clearances and contested possessions in that first half, but I think the girls’ ability to apply themselves on defence [was a strong response].
“In the second half, I thought we were much better around the ball, and then the girls did well to defend in that last eight or nine minutes when we were under the pump.
“I think we’re continuing to improve each week. We’re pleased tonight but there’s plenty of growth in this team moving forward.”
As Casey Fields served up its trademark wind, the Demons benefitted from past experiences, working the gust on their home deck to win the territory game.
While clean kicking was a challenge at times, Melbourne was strong in air and registered 38 marks to North’s 22, six of which were contested.
Lily Mithen led the way with six grabs, alongside her 28 disposals and six tackles, followed by Libby Birch, who had four and stood up tall in defence.
Karen Paxman was at her usual best, finishing with 28 touches and a goal of her own, while Shelley Heath proved too strong for one of the game’s best in Emma Kearney, keeping the opposition’s captain to just 11 disposals.
For Stinear, the commitment to the team is what is most pleasing.
“Shelley’s very task-orientated, so she loves a role, and she loves a challenge,” Stinear said.
“I really enjoy coaching her. She was open to that challenge tonight.
“Emma (Kearney) has been brilliant off half-back. She’s certainly not a player that you can let dictate the game from back there, so I thought Shelley did a really good job of denying Emma some space tonight.
Melbourne now moves to second on the 2022 AFLW ladder, after consecutive victories and all-round performances against top sides – the Demons defeated reigning premiers Brisbane in Round 7.
Another challenge awaits in a week’s time, when the group will travel west to go up against third-placed Fremantle, in what is sure to be just as tough, competitive and exciting.
“The team enjoys playing against the best teams in the comp,” Stinear said.
“North are a quality team and we really got challenged tonight.
“I think that’s how you improve; playing against the best and evolving and learning and finding ways to get better each week.
“It will certainly be no different when we travel to WA and get the chance to take on Fremantle on Saturday night.”
Hear more from Melbourne coach Mick Stinear below.
