NATHAN Jones says he’s felt like “a caged lion” in recent weeks, given his readiness to play in the opening round of the season.
The new Melbourne vice-captain said he couldn’t wait for his side’s first match of the season against Port Adelaide at the MCG on Easter Sunday.
“A few weeks ago, I just wanted it to hurry up. You’re almost willing it on and you almost want to avoid the practice matches, so you can start playing out on the ‘G,” he told melbournefc.com.au.
“Nothing describes what the feeling’s like of playing in round one, particularly after a long pre-season – you just want to test it. I just want to see it unfold and see how we go.
“I want to see what we’ve trained and put into practice and really test it in a high pressure game that’s worth four points. It’s going to be pretty interesting, and I’m excited.”
Jones said the NAB Cup tested the resolve because players were eager for the season proper.
“You’ve just got to deal with it mentally and it can be a tough time, because I played two games, missed a game and played a game,” he said.
“I probably didn’t play as much game time as I wanted, which becomes a little bit frustrating, but as long as you keep a clear head you’re right.
“You’ve got to keep focused over the NAB Cup period and just think ‘what can I get out of it? – and it is an imperative part of the team’s preparation.”
Although Jones said the build up to round one was significant, he said it was important to realise it was no different to any other round.
“The media does build it up a bit, but you can’t get caught up in it,” he said.
“It builds a great vibe among the city and the community, and AFL fans are chomping at the bit for it to start. But as a player, you’ve got to remove yourself from it, even though I’m pretty excited, because it’s a new season and it’s beginning.
“We have to come prepared. I’ve kept a pretty close eye on Port Adelaide and their results, and they look like they’ve been in really good nick. We had a really good battle with them in Renmark [in the NAB Cup]. It’ll be a tough day, there’s no doubt about that.”
