MIDFIELD coach Ben Mathews has praised the recent performances of skipper Nathan Jones and rookie Aaron vandenBerg, but says the Melbourne midfield has overall lifted significantly this year.
Speaking to Dee TV, Mathews said Jones and vandenBerg were critical in Melbourne’s 32-point win over Richmond at the
MCG last round, but they had several teammates join them for the ride.
He said it was important the midfield rises again on Sunday against Fremantle at the MCG.
“vandenBerg started in the centre circle last week and came out and performed really well. He came out with 13 tackles, and that’s what we’re asking our guys to do – to play, hard, contested footy,” Mathews said.
“Jonesy’s really working out when to lead and when to go and get the footy himself, and he’s bringing others along with him at the moment. He’s really outspoken out on the field and I think we’ve had periods in the past where Jonesy might’ve gone quiet and worried about himself.
“But he’s really thinking team at the moment and that’s having a positive effect on the Bernie Vinces, Benny Newtons and [Heritier] Lumumbas and those types, who have all come into our midfield and played a role.
“They’re just two of six or seven or eight [players] that are performing a role at the moment and we’re going to need that against Freo – no doubt.”
Mathews said ruckman Mark Jamar was set for a big challenge against Fremantle duo Aaron Sandilands and Zac Clarke this round, but backed him in to compete strongly.
“They’re a quality duo, Clarke and Sandilands. Sandi is a giant and they score really heavily from their stoppage, so it’s a big challenge for our whole group – not just the rucks,” he said.
“It’s a massive challenge to combat their midfield, but they give their midfielders first use.
“I think [Clarke] is having a real impact on matches this year – certainly both in the ruck and forward. He’s marking it a lot more and Sandilands – we all know how good of use he gives his midfield with his ruck work.
“Mark [Jamar] played quite well against Freo last year up in Darwin and we’re expecting him to compete super hard against Sandi.”
