COACH Simon Goodwin says the “mateship” and “togetherness” built by the club has played a massive part in Melbourne making the finals and it will continue to play a key role as the club aims to go deep into September.
Speaking at Fox Footy on Wednesday afternoon, Goodwin said the closeness of the group was “really strong” and had been a key driver in Melbourne’s rise into the finals for the first time since 2006.
“We head into this new tournament feeling good about where we sit and how we’re playing, and about how we feel about one another,” he said.
“It’s a good position to be in.”
Goodwin said the excitement and focus on the team was “great for the football club”.
“We had a pretty strong training session on Saturday, which simulated a game of such and then really just jumped into a normal preparation in our week,” he said.
“The players have been terrific at staying focused on what they need to prepare for, so that’s all the game’s really about for us – it’s another game of footy, and it’s an exciting game of footy.
“But it’s about performing at our best and we’ve got a clear formula that when we play at our best – we know what that looks like. That’s what we’re looking to display on Friday night.”
Goodwin said Geelong would be a tough opponent, but he was equally confident that his side could do the job.
“We know what we’re up against. We’re up against a really strong footy club that’s got great experience and has got some great leaders and some unbelievable players,” he said.
“But at the same time, we feel like we have as well, and we’re well-prepared.”
Goodwin said co-captain Jack Viney (toe) would be “ready to play and ready to perform”.
“He’s been outstanding in his preparation,” he said.
“We’re really comfortable with where he sits. He’s hungry to get out there.”
And he was optimistic midfielder Dom Tyson (arm) would be right to play.
“He trained fully yesterday and he’s got a couple more boxes to tick tomorrow (Thursday), but if he gets through that, he’ll be ready to play,” he said.
“Dean Kent is probably a couple of weeks away. Things are settling down with his AC joint and he’ll see the doctors and surgeons again next week – just to get a bit more of a follow up on that.
“We’re still encouraged that he’s going to play a part at some stage.”
Goodwin said Mitch Hannan, Jayden Hunt and Joel Smith were also in the mix for a call-up, after they returned via the VFL last weekend.
