HIGH pressure. High effort. Important win.
That’s how Melbourne’s senior coach Mick Stinear summed up his side’s victory on Wednesday night.
The Dees travelled to Crows territory and fought until the final siren to secure a thrilling two-point win against Adelaide rivals.
“I’m really pleased with how the group started the game,” Stinear told media post-match.
“Coming here tonight, we just wanted to compete and we felt the group did that.
“I’m just super proud of the group, it’s obviously not easy to win [against Adelaide] and they’ve always been a tough team to play against, so the win will mean a lot to our group.”
Sinead Goldrick (19 disposals, five tackles, ten intercepts) and Kate Hore (19 disposals, five tackles, eight intercepts) both celebrated milestones and were among the best of the Dees line-up.
The side’s connection and willingness to battle for two beloved teammates in Goldrick and Hore was a key driver in their quick start, kicking back-to-back goals to open the game.
“It has been a challenging start to the season but Kate and Sinead having their milestones, they mean a lot to the group,” Stinear said.
“We’ve had a bit of time together [with travel] and the group has let go of any expectations and have just gone out there to compete and give it our best as a team, and they definitely did that tonight.”
With four games left of the home-and-away season, the win provides a level of confidence needed for the run home.
After a slow start to their campaign, Stinear emphasised how the back-to-back victories would create an exciting opportunity ahead of Sunday's game in particular.
“The belief the group will get out of this is really important,” Stinear said.
“It shows the group what’s required to compete and win games at this level.
“I know at times it may not have been that great to watch, but the ferocity of the way the players were competing from both teams is impressive in itself.”
