Tom McDonald, Christian Petracca and Jordan Lewis, who all could’ve gained a vote.
Good to see …
Neville Jetta play his 100th AFL game. His journey to reach the ton hasn’t come easy – and all associated with the Demons were rapt to see the hard-at-it defender achieve his milestone. Jetta, who played 41 matches in his first five seasons, has been a mainstay since 2014 and become one of the more highly-regarded small defenders in the game. The fact he overcame a host of injuries, particularly early in his career, and being delisted and then reinstated via the rookie list to make it, is a testament to his character. Well done Nev!
Oppo’s best: Brendon Goddard
Michael Hurley had an excellent first half and was vying for Essendon’s best, but it was Goddard, who was outstanding across four quarters, winning 31 disposals, including a game-high 13 contested possessions. He also had 480 metres gained – the best by a Bomber. He is now just five games away from playing 300 AFL matches (205 with St Kilda and 90 with Essendon).
Matty Goodrope’s pic of the day Neville Jetta runs out onto the field for his 100th match.
Injuries have mounted in recent weeks for Melbourne, but thankfully for the red and blue that eased up this round. No rush has been placed on Jesse Hogan, who did not play against Essendon, because of the sad passing of his father, Tony. Billy Stretch, Sam Weideman and James Harmes were the emergencies against the Dons and will again be around the selection mark. Josh Wagner, on the comeback trail from a thumb injury, impressed in the VFL and could be a chance. Dean Kent, Jack Trengove and Ben Kennedy were also among Casey’s best. Angus Brayshaw is likely to return to the VFL. But after several changes to the side in recent weeks, Melbourne might make minimal changes this week.
Next round
Melbourne returns to the MCG for its round seven clash against Hawthorn. The Demons managed to end a losing streak against the Hawks last year that stretched back to 2006 – it proved to be one of Melbourne’s best wins in 10 years. Now, remarkably, Hawthorn sits 17th on the ladder, with just one win for the season – over the West Coast Eagles at the MCG in round five. In fact, the Hawks’ past three losses have been by an average of 82.33 points – a phenomenal statistic, given they’ve won four flags in the past decade. Coach Simon Goodwin was adamant post-match after the win over Essendon that Hawthorn wouldn’t be taken lightly, and Melbourne would prepare for the brown and gold’s best. It will. But it will still be intriguing to see how it plays out.
