By Nick Creely
Now just percentage of second spot, Melbourne is roaring its way back to finals contention after a thrilling six point win over Brisbane on Friday night.
In front of a healthy crowd of 2100 at Casey Fields, Daisy Pearce flexed her muscles to completely dominate the match, racking up 24 disposals and kicking two clutch goals to see off a dogged Lions outfit.
The Dees got the jump in the first term, skipping out to a 15 point advantage, and the Lions came back; as expected; but fell short despite the heroic efforts of Sabrina Frederick-Traub (three goals), who almost single handily stole the game away.
“They’re (the Lions) a really tough side and it’s no coincidence they were in the Grand Final last year, as they’ve brought a really strong and hard effort around the ball this year,” Melbourne coach Mick Stinear said post-match.
“We felt we had gone away from our game style the last couple of weeks and for the girls to come back to that tonight and be that strong around the ball for four quarters, we were proud of them.
“There were a lot of smiling faces in the rooms afterwards and that’s what we want – we just want them to bring their best effort for the four quarters and we’re really pleased with what they did tonight.”
Stinear was full of praise of Pearce’s herculean efforts through the midfield, labelling her as “outstanding”.
“There are probably no other words to describe her – her leadership and ability to step-up when the team requires it [is outstanding],” he said.
“Even her ability to get more out from those around her, with her communication – I was really proud of her and what she did for the group tonight.”
The Demons face Carlton at Ikon Park on Saturday night in what is a crunch clash.
MELBOURNE 2.3 2.6 3.10 4.10 (34)
BRISBANE 0.0 1.1 2.2 4.4 (28)
GOALS
Melbourne: D Pearce 2, Cunningham, Hore
Brisbane: Frederick-Traub 3, Gibson
BEST
Melbourne: D Pearce, O’Dea, Paxman, L Pearce, Smith, Patterson, Hore
Brisbane: Frederick-Traub, Lutkins, Ashmore, Anderson, Zielke
INJURIES
Melbourne: Cunningham (head knock)
Brisbane: Hildebrand (head knock)
