COACH Dean Bailey says it was difficult to find any good players for Melbourne in its disappointing 45-point loss to Hawthorn at the MCG on Sunday.
Speaking post-match at his media conference, Bailey was asked what he thought of Luke Tapscott’s performance - the second-gamer had 23 disposals and was one of Melbourne’s better players - but the coach said he couldn't find any standouts.
“The game’s played over four quarters, so I don’t think there were too many good players for us,” he said.
Despite being frustrated by the loss, Bailey acknowledged the opposition, rating Hawthorn one of the sides to beat in 2011.
“They’re a pretty good team. They’re showing all of the signs of a top four team I would think,” he said.
“They way they moved the footy at speed - and their decision-making, kicking in congestion and spreading - they showed a lot of elements that they’re going to take a lot of better during the year.
“I know they lost the first round, but they were very impressive today (Sunday).”
Meanwhile, Bailey is optimistic about defender Col Garland, who hurt his knee in the second half against the Hawks. Garland did a good job on Hawthorn superstar Lance Franklin.
“He’s got a jarred knee, so with those things we’ve got to wait 24 to 48 hours,” Bailey said.
“Hopefully there is no swelling.”
Speaking post-match at his media conference, Bailey was asked what he thought of Luke Tapscott’s performance - the second-gamer had 23 disposals and was one of Melbourne’s better players - but the coach said he couldn't find any standouts.
“The game’s played over four quarters, so I don’t think there were too many good players for us,” he said.
Despite being frustrated by the loss, Bailey acknowledged the opposition, rating Hawthorn one of the sides to beat in 2011.
“They’re a pretty good team. They’re showing all of the signs of a top four team I would think,” he said.
“They way they moved the footy at speed - and their decision-making, kicking in congestion and spreading - they showed a lot of elements that they’re going to take a lot of better during the year.
“I know they lost the first round, but they were very impressive today (Sunday).”
Meanwhile, Bailey is optimistic about defender Col Garland, who hurt his knee in the second half against the Hawks. Garland did a good job on Hawthorn superstar Lance Franklin.
“He’s got a jarred knee, so with those things we’ve got to wait 24 to 48 hours,” Bailey said.
“Hopefully there is no swelling.”
