From First to Worst: If Fitness Isn’t the Issue, What’s Behind the Dees’ Final-Term Fades?

Melbourne is searching for answers to its fourth-quarter fadeouts, but lack of fitness is unlikely the cause. For two consecutive weeks, Melbourne has been goalless in the final quarter, allowing opponents to close large deficits. Recently, a 15-point lead against Brisbane turned into a five-point loss, and a 33-point lead against North Melbourne shrank to a three-point win.

This is a notable change for Melbourne, which previously led the league in fourth-quarter performance. Until round nine this year, they ranked first in fourth-quarter differential, but since round 10, they have dropped to last place.

Fitness data suggests the team is not struggling physically. In the recent game against Brisbane, Melbourne covered the most distance of any team that round and performed more high-speed runs and sprints. They also had higher defensive speed and more clearances, contested possessions, and tackles.

The issue might be related to the team’s youth and inexperience, with many players aged 22 or younger and fewer experienced players compared to their opponents. Coach Simon Goodwin noted that conservatism and pressure in crucial moments might be factors. Despite the challenges, Goodwin sees potential in the team’s performance during the first three quarters and believes there is much to learn from their struggles.