CHRISTIAN Petracca says he’s determined to replicate his semi-final performance against West Coast Eagles in the second preliminary final at Optus Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Petracca was one of Melbourne’s best in its first semi-final win over the Hawks at the MCG last Friday night, with 22 disposals and a goal, and he said he was ready to perform his role again in Perth.
“I felt like I played my role well for the team,” he told Melbourne Media.
“I felt like my strengths were back on show – my contested possession, winning the ball one-on-one.
“As long as I keep playing my role for the team and we keep getting a win – that’s all that matters.”
Petracca said the Demons were hellbent to back-up its stunning round 22 win over West Coast.
“I feel like we take a fair bit [of confidence into the match]. It’s such a hostile environment and probably one of the hardest grounds to play at, just because of the fans,” he said.
“It’s probably 95 per cent West Coast and five per cent Melbourne, but we know it’s a big occasion and they’re bringing back [Josh] Kennedy and [Jack] Darling, who will play the majority of the game this time, instead of [having] concussion.
“It’ll be a challenging game, but we’re up for up.”
Petracca said he would have great support from family and friends at the game.
“My grandma is one of 11, so eight of them live in Perth, so I’ve booked about 21 tickets,” he said.
“It’s exciting, but it’s the whole point of it. It’s a family-oriented culture at the club and I feel like all of the families are going, so I can’t wait.
“It’s been pretty expensive [for flights], but if we win, it’ll be pretty well worth it.”