COACH Paul Roos says Melbourne’s one-goal loss to the West Coast Eagles at Domain Stadium last Saturday “was an interesting game to review, because statistically we did everything we set out to do”.
Roos said the defeat was “probably a bit of a reflection of a young team” in the wash-up.
“When we get those stats at the end of a game – you’d probably win 99 out of 100. But to be fair to West Coast, their ability to kick some key goals at different times … [was the difference]. There was probably a bit of a lack of experience, which was understandable with our defence and [we lacked] composure with ball in hand,” he told Melbourne TV.
“We had repeat inside 50s and even though we were plus-29, a lot of them came in bunches. When you’re doing that, you’re going into a crowded forward line, because West Coast hasn’t emptied their defence. That’s just composure – rather than just banging it in long.
“But I’ll take those stats every week and hopefully roll the dice that you’re going to win most weeks. It was really disappointing, but certainly a lot of positives. We played the Grand Final team from last year and we came off a six-day break and it was a really young team going over there in the wet. So there were a lot of positives to come out of the game.”
Looking ahead to Sunday’s clash against the Gold Coast Suns, Roos said there was plenty to play for this round – and the rest of the season.
“We’re looking forward to it. All teams like ourselves, the Suns, Lions and Essendon – there is still a lot to play for – the teams that can’t make the eight,” he said.
“We’ve got a lot to play for [by] setting up off-seasons and young players getting more game time. Players that have had good seasons – [we want them] to finish off the season really good.
“They’ve changed their style slightly to what they’re doing and it’s another good challenge and it’s good to be back at the MCG.”
Meanwhile, Roos praised the selection of Melbourne’s marquee players Daisy Pearce and Mel Hickey, who were selected by the club on Wednesday. The duo is the first listed players for next year’s women’s team.
“It’s great. It’s gaining some great momentum and it’s fantastic for the girls to get some reward for the effort that they’ve put in,” Roos said.
“It’s great to see the back page of the paper and two or three great articles about the girls and getting to understand them more, and learning more about them.
“I’m looking forward to when it kicks off next year and seeing the first game, and watching the girls play and evolve next year and into a terrific competition over the next three, five and 10 years.”
