David King has continued his analysis of pre-season training at various AFL clubs this summer, and on Friday morning he focused on Melbourne’s session at Casey Fields.
The Demons were put through their paces in a match simulation during the session, with King taking away several notes from how Simon Goodwin intends to structure his squad in 2024.
King’s initial notes came in the form of some up-and-coming Demons, with the 22-year-old Trent Rivers the clear standout, while Bailey Laurie impressed through the midfield.
He also noted that 19-year-old rookie Kynan Brown also showed some flashes.
“Rivers the standout and looks ready to take another leap,” King posted on X.
“Bailey Laurie in the midfield looked terrific, expect more opportunities - Kynan Brown did some nice things.”
The biggest concern for the Demons has been their lack of potency up forward, however King did note that the off-season acquisition of Shane McAdam looks to alleviate that somewhat.
Melbourne training:
— David King (@davidking34) January 26, 2024
Match sim:
Rivers the standout and looks ready to take another leap.
Bailey Laurie in the midfield look terrific, expect more opportunities - Kynan Brown did some nice things.
A club not needing massive improvement, but McAdam certainly adds potency up fwd
Another worry for King is the amount of injuries the club has already sustained, with ruck/forward Tom Fullarton going down late in the session, while others are still yet to be cleared for full training.
“Fullarton injured late in session, possibly bad hammy but await more details/accuracy from club,” King posted on X.
“A few too many still making their way back into full training which is a concern.”
King did also note the importance of Melbourne’s leaders in setting the tone of training, while also observing a new approach to the Demons’ ball movement.
“Leaders are awesome trainers and drive the session as you’d expect. (Christian) Petracca phenomenal,” he posted.
“Definitely more dare with ball movement and forward 50 entries in diff conditions re wind/rain at Casey.”
Lastly, King considered what the Demons’ ruck rotation would look like this year, with the Brodie Grundy experiment having come to its conclusion and Fullarton sustaining an injury.
“The back up ruck position interesting dilemma, or if Max (Gawn) misses some football in ’24,” he posted.
“The season of M Gawn will reflect team output in ‘24. Most important player to team in AFL.”
Melbourne will begin their 2024 campaign with an Opening Round clash against Sydney at the SCG on Thursday, March 7.
Photo: @melbournefc Twitter.