Melbourne Football Club’s defender Steven May will miss his second consecutive match due to a fractured larynx. May, 33, was a late withdrawal from the team’s season-opening loss to Greater Western Sydney (GWS) and will not play in the upcoming match against North Melbourne.
According to Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin, May’s injury is not as severe as initially thought and is expected to be a short-term setback. May will see a specialist over the weekend to determine the next course of action. Goodwin expressed optimism about May’s recovery, stating that he is progressing well and has regained his voice.
In other team news, emerging midfielder Caleb Windsor has been hospitalized with a foot infection and will miss the match. Windsor, 19, missed part of the pre-season with a previous infection and pulled up sore again after round one. Goodwin described Windsor’s situation as “a bit of a setback” but emphasized that it is short-term and that the player should be back in action soon.
The team has made several changes to its lineup, with Charlie Spargo returning from an Achilles injury and Daniel Turner and Taj Woewodwin joining the team. Forward Aidan Johnson has been suspended for one match due to a dangerous tackle. First-round draft pick Harvey Langford is also out of the side.
Goodwin took a positive approach to his review of the last-minute defeat to GWS, highlighting the team’s strong performance in the first three quarters. He was particularly pleased with the reunited midfield group, which included Christian Petracca, Clayton Oliver, Jack Viney, and ruckman Max Gawn. Petracca showed glimpses of his best form on return from injury, combining well with his teammates in the centre square and around clearance.
Goodwin emphasized the importance of having the team’s best players back in action and impacting the game. He noted that the midfield group’s performance was significant and that their return to form is exciting for the team’s supporters.
Melbourne will face North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium on Sunday, with the Demons seeking to bounce back from their opening-round loss. The team will be looking to capitalize on their strong midfield performance and make the most of their opportunities against the Kangaroos.