Melbourne Demons

“Genuine purpose”: Melbourne buoyed by star’s “desire” in new role

“It’s real leadership. We saw tonight Clayton starting to evolve himself back to the player we all knew.”

Published by

Aidan Cellini

Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin says he's seen a major shift in midfielder Clayton Oliver after being tasked with another run-with role.

After being sent to Hawthorn's Jai Newcombe, Oliver was seen spending a lot of time with Brisbane star Lachie Neale, especially at the stoppages.

The four-time Demons best and fairest winner is traditionally a ball-winner, averaging 28.4 disposals and 6.6 clearances a game.

But Oliver's new and selfless role has impressed Goodwin, who says it's given him "genuine purpose" as he continues to return to his best football.

"Clayton's been brilliant in his desire to help the team," Goodwin said.

"It's real leadership. We saw tonight Clayton starting to evolve himself back to the player we all knew.

"It was clear it'd take time, and we're 10 weeks in, and you can see he's starting to get his game back to a high level.

"The last two weeks has given him genuine purpose. He wanted to take this up and really show he can help the team around the ball."

Despite Neale gathering 30 disposals and six clearances, he struggled to get involved in the Lions' scores.

On the other end, Oliver had moments of brilliance through his 23-possession outing, including a goal and a crucial knock-on to teammate Kysaiah Pickett.

Goodwin has also used vice-captain Jack Viney in similar roles, which he believes shows the youth at the club the way forward.

"It's real leadership to our younger players that this is what we're about," Goodwin added.

"You need to be selfless to be successful in this game, and they're continuing to lead the way.

"He wanted to do this. When Jack Viney has been out, he wanted to take this up, and really show he can help the team around the ball."

After 10 rounds, Melbourne has recorded four victories, all of which have come in the past five weeks.

An intriguing clash with Sydney on Sunday at the MCG will be telling for both sides, as they both attempt to turn around a sluggish start to the year.

Published by

Aidan Cellini

4 weeks ago