WHAT a difference a year makes.
This time 12 months ago, Steven May had a target on his back.
He was the Demons’ prized recruit over the 2018 off-season and his debut campaign didn’t go to script.
After managing just eight games last year due to ongoing trouble with injury, pressure was mounting on the key defender.
But now, those fitness issues - and off-field indiscretions - are a distant memory for football fans, as May has put together a season many believe is worthy of All Australian selection.
“The pressure was warranted,” May told Melbourne Media after his side’s three-point victory over St Kilda.
“I didn’t turn up in great nick and I got injured and I wasn’t able to play.
“You’re a high-profile recruit, that’s what comes with it.
“I’m under no illusions with that, I just thought I’ll knuckle down this pre-season, get myself in career-best nick, so then I can just play footy and not have to worry about any other external pressures.”
May did just that and he hasn’t taken a backwards step in 2020.
The 28-year-old was instrumental in Melbourne’s season-defining win on Saturday night, keeping Max King to three disposals, while having 22 touches, 12 intercept possessions and nine marks himself.
This caps off a stellar run from the former Gold Coast captain, who is enjoying every moment of life in the Maroochydore hub.
“I’m on a good head space off-field,” he said.
“The boys have instilled in our culture that we’ve got going here in the hub - it’s a really good family vibe.
“I usually live by myself, but living in a hub you’ve got 80 brothers and sisters.
“I’m just in a good spot and I think the club’s building.
While the win at TIO Traeger Park sees the Demons climb to eighth position on the ladder with four games to play, May isn’t comfortable just yet.
“I’m a bit of a pessimistic guy out there,” he said.
“I always feel like we’re going to lose - I think that’s the way I play.
“I just play like we’re going to lose because I don’t want to lose.
“I’ll be happy once Round 18’s finished and we’ve cemented a spot.
“We’ve got a big test against Sydney in five days ... so enjoy this for the next hour or so, then back into recovery.”
Watch below to hear more from May in the moments after the win.
