AFL premiership favourites Melbourne have been accustomed to that includes as the primary occasion, somewhat than the help act, in current seasons.
But coach Simon Goodwin concedes his aspect will play second fiddle in Saturday’s Gather Round double-header at a sold-out Adelaide Oval.
The Demons tackle Essendon earlier than hometown outfit Port Adelaide host the Western Bulldogs.
“It’s not too often you play in a curtain-raiser, but that’s us this week,” South Adelaide product and former Crows champion Goodwin stated.
“(Gather Round) is something the AFL have wanted to have a go at, getting all the teams in one state, and I think it’s exciting for the state of South Australia.
“I’m a South Australian boy rising up and I understand how a lot ardour they’ve across the sport of footy, and the way a lot it’ll carry life to the town of Adelaide.
“I’m sure they’ll put on a great spectacle … and I think it’s a concept that we’re going to see moving forward.”
Melbourne have received 9 of their previous 11 video games at Adelaide Oval, together with a ‘dwelling’ qualifying ultimate in opposition to Brisbane in 2021.
They are greater than comfy on the venue however are cautious of opponents Essendon, who’ve received three of their first 4 video games underneath new coach Brad Scott.
“In all their games they’ve been able to either impact the scoreboard or find a way back into the game,” Goodwin stated.
“They’re competing really strongly, they’ve got some quality players in the middle of the ground and they’ve been a really resilient footy club under Brad Scott.
“We know the challenges which are going to be in entrance of us.”
Ben Brown returns from injury to add firepower for the Demons, who have also recalled Adam Tomlinson.
Defensive duo Jake Lever (ankle) and Michael Hibberd (achilles soreness) are out injured.
Essendon have recalled Will Snelling for his first senior game of the season after losing former Melbourne key forward Sam Weideman to concussion protocols.
Bombers purpose sneak Alwyn Davey Jr has been managed.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
