MELBOURNE will return to the MCG this Saturday looking to build on a month of improvement, with Simon Goodwin confident the team is tracking in the right direction.

Coming off three stronger performances, the Demons are focused on delivering consistency as they look to climb the ladder in the second half of the year.

“We’ve had three really strong weeks,” Goodwin said. “We need to keep getting our days and weeks right and putting out strong performances.”

Oliver returns refreshed

Clayton Oliver returned to training this week after spending some time away from the club to prioritise his wellbeing — a decision Goodwin said reflects growth on all sides.

“Last week, it was pretty clear he needed some time away from the game,” he said.

“It was off the back of great medical advice, and we’re really proud he put his hand up.”

Goodwin said Oliver has responded well, training strongly and feeling refreshed as he reintegrates with the group.

“It shows real maturity — from both Clayton and the club — in how we now deal with mental health and wellbeing,” he said.

He added that Oliver’s support network has been vital: “He has strong support networks around him — not just medically, but also through his teammates.”

Melksham’s veteran influence

Jake Melksham’s leadership has been another steadying factor in Melbourne’s resurgence, with Goodwin praising the forward’s on-field presence and mentorship.

“His ability to execute a role and help our younger forwards is so valuable,” he said.

“You’re seeing across the comp how important mature players are — and Jake’s doing that for us.”

Selection pressure rising

Melbourne will face several selection decisions this week, with VFL form giving selectors plenty to consider.

“Van Rooyen, Johnson and Jefferson all played outstanding footy,” Goodwin said.

“They complement our side really well, so we’ll make a call post-training.”

The Hawthorn Challenge

Melbourne will face Hawthorn for the first time since Round 2 last year, and Simon Goodwin knows they’ll be up against a much-improved side.

“They’re strong across all phases and all areas of the ground,” Goodwin said.

“We know it’s a challenge, but we love the opportunity to play at 1:20 on a Saturday in front of our home crowd. We’re expecting a big turnout and can’t wait for a massive Melbourne-based clash.”

Season still wide open

Goodwin said the Demons have reshaped their approach in recent weeks, returning to the core of what’s made them successful.

“We’ve become really strong around the footy again and we’re defending at a high level,” he said.

“Those two areas drive our game — and now the rest, like scoring, will start to follow.”

Despite a difficult start, Goodwin said the group remains optimistic about what’s still possible in 2025.

“We’re in a delicate spot, but it’s a long season,” he said.

“There are plenty of examples — Brisbane and Hawthorn— of teams who’ve built late and had strong finishes.”