Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin says a “parma and a pot” overlooking the beach has helped him relax in the lead-up to tomorrow’s AFL grand final in Perth.
Key points:
- The countdown to the grand final at Perth Stadium is underway
- Demons and Bulldogs players and coaches are trying to avoid the hype
- The venue and two-week break has presented them with a unique build-up
Goodwin’s Demons will be out to end a 57-year premiership drought when they face the Western Bulldogs at Perth Stadium.
The AFL’s decision to hold a pre-game bye before the game has given both sides an extra week to prepare.
Goodwin said it had also meant more work for the coaches, and he was relieved the game was now in sight.
“I think yesterday was the first time I got a chance to spend some time out,” he said.
“I took a little drive to a place called Yanchep and laid on the beach, and then went up to the pub and had a parma and a pot.
ABC News: Julian Robins
)Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli said visits to the local coffee shop had been his way of escaping the pre-game hype.
The 2016 premiership player said the longer build-up had provided more opportunity for relaxation.
“The perk of the longer lead-in does give you that opportunity on your days off to get away from the hotel for half a day here or there,” he said.
“To embrace those quieter moments in between, and just reflect on the opportunity that lies [ahead], but obviously also on what’s happened to this point.”
AAP: Scott Barbour
)Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge said swimming had been his relaxation method, although he had mostly restricted himself to local pools, rather than taking a dip at the beach.
“Not swimming too far out in the Indian Ocean with the men in grey suits out there,” he joked.
For Demons skipper Max Gawn, tomorrow’s clash comes with a dual sense of responsibility.
Gawn is aiming to be the first Melbourne captain to raise the cup since 1964.
Getty Images: Michael Willson
)He said that would be an immense honour, but he was more concerned with the present day.
“We both have a responsibility to get out there and perform at our best and make our members and families and supporters proud back in the eastern states who are doing things tough.
“The drought is one thing but I’m more realistic about what’s actually happening in Melbourne now.”
Bontempelli, who played in the Dogs’ drought-breaking premiership of 2016, said his advice to teammates who did not feature in that game had been simple.
“Enjoy the ride,” he said.
“You never know when your next opportunity might be.
“So give yourself up to the build-up. It’s an exciting prospect to be a part of.”
Source: AFL NEWS ABC
