It’s been rare this season that Melbourne has been in the hunt at three quarter-time. In round five, against the Western Bulldogs, Melbourne trailed by 15 points before it fell short by 21 points. The following week, the Demons took it right up to the Saints, when they were down by just three points entering the final stanza. But a goalless final term and 2.3 from St Kilda ended any thought of a victory. Still, that 18-point margin remains Melbourne’s closest margin for the season - although not a flattering statistic. Yet on Sunday, Melbourne was just 16 points in arrears against Carlton at three quarter-time. It was game-on in a match that up until that point was a hard-fought affair. But seven goals to zip - in the Blues’ favour - in the final term, ended any thought of a Demon comeback. It was a frustrating result, considering the Dees showed plenty of grit for three quarters.

Two more big ones before the break

And the massive challenges continue before the mid-season break with Essendon next round and Collingwood to follow in the traditional Queen’s Birthday clash. Both will be extremely difficult to overcome, but Melbourne needs to confront them head-on and enter with confidence. The Demons may even draw from their most recent encounter - and win - against the Bombers, even though it was almost a year ago. Back in round 11 last year, Melbourne produced an impressive 33-point win under lights at the MCG - arguably its best win in 2011. Although that seems an eternity ago, given Essendon is now second on the ladder and Melbourne is last, it is another important test for the red and blue.  

Watts backs up

After a career-best 34 disposals against the Swans last round - and on the back of a two-match stint with Casey - Watts’ challenge was to produce another strong performance. Although he didn’t reach those lofty numbers, he was again one of Melbourne’s better performers, notching up 23 touches from defence. And once again, he looked as though he belonged as an attacking rebounder out of the back half. Not surprisingly, he was his side’s equal best with disposal efficiency against the Blues, further highlighting his ball use. It was another tick in his emerging career and another pointer that he remains an integral part of Melbourne’s future. 

Jordie’s justification on Juddy

The evolution of Jordie McKenzie continued in round nine, when he was assigned one of the all-time greats: Chris Judd. And the country lad from Terang didn’t disappoint either. McKenzie had 17 touches and held Judd to 21 - his second lowest for the season. It was another fine performance from the rookie, who has also had the likes of Daniel Kerr and Brendon Goddard this year. Although the likes of livewire Mitch Robinson and former Demon Brock McLean stepped up for the Blues, McKenzie’s ability to stick to his task and run with Judd was another feather in his cap. McKenzie also had 10 tackles for the match.

Dees equal worst start since 2007

So after nine rounds, Melbourne has no win on the board - hardly what any Demon fan would’ve expected. The last time Melbourne lost its first nine matches was in 2007, which was Neale Daniher’s last season as coach. Interestingly, the Demons won in round 10, when they knocked over the Crows at the MCG. Although many pundits have predicted the Dees to be 0-11, they must still strive for an upset over the Dons or Pies in the next two weeks.