Bailey's two reasons to be excited
Consistency from Aaron Davey, and the emerging raw talent of Liam Jurrah, make the future exciting for Melbourne fans, says coach Dean Bailey
That's the assessment from Melbourne coach Dean Bailey, who spoke glowingly of the two indigenous players that starred in the 63-point win over Fremantle at the MCG on Sunday.
Davey was best-on-ground with a game-high 31 disposals and two goals, while Jurrah booted four goals in another eye-catching performance.
Bailey said Davey will be challenging for his first Keith 'Bluey' Truscott Trophy, along with Brent Moloney and Cameron Bruce.
"He'd be up there, Aaron. He's had a very good year and he's been pretty consistent and he hasn't had too many poor games. I reckon his average game has still been OK," the second-year Melbourne coach said.
Bailey said Jurrah was just starting to bring his brilliance on the training track across to game day.
"There are some exciting things ahead for LJ none of us have yet seen in games, so when he gets fitter and stronger, he's going to be a very good player," he said.
"To Liam's credit, he trains really well and he's a terrific young bloke, who is still finding this new world of AFL pretty exciting, so I hope he stays that way.
"He's a natural player. He does understand the game and he often throws up some good pointers."
Bailey said Jurrah's transition period from post-season to pre-season would be "very challenging".
"He'll go home [to Yuendumu] and he already is a star there – that's no different for him – but the type of program we give him has got to suit the environment that he's in," he said.
"It's going to be important he comes back in reasonable condition."
On Melbourne's fourth win of the season, Bailey said the players simply hung in from the start.
"The guys deserve a pat on the back for coming out and playing well and winning the game – they were good," he said.
"I'm pleased for the players. They've been to hell and back, if you like. I've said in the last month and I've said it for the last couple of years that they are very supportive of each other. They really are committed to helping each other.
Next round the Demons take on Carlton, who were impressive winners over Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium on Sunday.
"Carlton has got a lot to play for at the moment. The challenge for us is: can we get ourselves up to play against a team that's in the finals?"