Melbourne’s New Look Engine Room
Melbourne wingman Ed Langdon expressed his disappointment that Christian Petracca will not be part of the highly anticipated clash between the Demons and Gold Coast at the MCG. This match, initially seen as a ‘grudge match’ due to Petracca’s history with the club, has been overshadowed by the absence of the star midfielder.
Petracca, who left the Demons after a challenging 18 months during the last trade period, was expected to play a central role in the game. However, a hamstring injury sustained in a recent win over Richmond has kept him sidelined for several weeks. Despite this setback, Petracca had been in excellent form, being named best afield in his first two games with the Suns before the injury struck.
“It’s a shame. It would’ve been great to play against Christian,” Langdon said to AAP. “But he’s had an unbelievable start to the year, so it might benefit us that he’s actually not playing.”
The departures of Petracca and 2021 premiership teammate Clayton Oliver, along with Jack Viney’s long-term Achilles injury, have created opportunities for a new-look Melbourne engine room. Caleb Windsor and Tom Sparrow have taken on more significant roles, while off-season recruit Jack Steele has brought added experience. Trent Rivers, however, was surprisingly dropped after being considered a potential replacement.
Despite these changes, none have made as much of an impact as Kysaiah Pickett. The 24-year-old has embraced increased midfield time, delivering career-best statistics, averaging 22.7 disposals, 4.3 clearances, and 5.3 tackles per game. His standout performance in the thrilling comeback win over Carlton last round helped the Demons start the season with a 2-1 record under new coach Steven King.
“He’s certainly taken his game to another level,” Langdon remarked. “He’s such a terrific player and he’s focusing more and more on his midfield craft, and working out how the best midfielders in the competition go about it. And we know what he can do when he goes forward – that’s kicking goals.”
Melbourne has also recalled Daniel Turner and veteran forward Jake Melksham, although Changkuoth Jiath (calf) and Paddy Cross (thumb) remain out of action. For the Gold Coast, the absence of Petracca and suspended forward Bailey Humphrey is a significant loss. However, coach Damien Hardwick is pleased to welcome back Brownlow Medal winner Matt Rowell from injury to strengthen his midfield. Key forward Jed Walter and Lachie Gulbin will make their season debuts, while Alex Davies has been dropped from the lineup.
