TEAM defensive coach Jade Rawlings says he’s been pleased with the progression of Melbourne’s young backline this season, although he acknowledges “it’s been a work in progress”. 

With the likes of Jayden Hunt (15 matches), Josh Wagner (14) and Oscar McDonald (13) playing much of the season down back, Rawlings said he was pleased with their development, given the trio has yet to notch up 50 AFL games between them.

“We’ve seen a lot of individuals improve, with what we’ve been asking them to do and given our level of experience as a group, it’s been quite pleasing,” he told Melbourne TV.

“There have been some inconsistencies there, but we expect that with a young group.

“We’re always looking to get better and we’ve got a group that’s certainly up for that.”

Rawlings said it was crucial for the backline group – and the rest of the players on Melbourne’s list – to maximise every opportunity in the remaining four rounds.   

“Four weeks is critical for us – as a group and as much as individuals,” he said.

“They want to finish off strong seasons and some of them want to be able to prove themselves [and show] what they can still offer the club.”