Bailey promises better showing
Dean Bailey says Demons fans can expect a more competitive outing against Collingwood
He said on Tuesday at Junction Oval that poor performances "across the board', rather than just by the senior group, had to be addressed.
"Our first half, our tackles didn't stick and I thought our pressure was well below what you would expect," Bailey said.
"That was disappointing, particularly going into round one where there is a big build up to the game."
Bailey was pleased with the opening five minutes of the second half, but said the results of the rest of the post-game review were disappointing.
He said tackling, chasing and pressuring the opposition would be the main focuses this week.
"It doesn't matter who it is, every Melbourne jumper needs to be out there showing it … you just can't pick and choose," Bailey said.
Bailey said the loss didn't mean he was feeling any more pressure than usual, despite external expectations.
"How many blokes are here at the press conference today on Tuesday - more than we normally see," Bailey said.
"Everyone gets put under the microscope and we're going to be no different than anyone else - that comes with the position of the senior coach.
"I don't think it was any different last year ."
Bailey said it was important Melbourne lifted for courageous utility Brad Green this weekend in his 200th match.
Green returned to the field last weekend after being taken from the ground on a stretcher following a sickening neck injury.
"Brad's a very courageous player and we need to show the physical part of the game ," Bailey said.
He said selection changes would be made against the Pies, with midfielder/forward Colin Sylvia, who suffered a broken jaw against West Coast in the final NAB Challenge match, a chance to play.
Bailey said 2008 No.1 NAB AFL draftee Jack Watts would have to play a few more games at Casey to regain fitness after a back injury interrupted his pre-season.