Melbourne superstar Clayton Oliver has credited coach Simon Goodwin for playing a pivotal role in his career, from his early days as an overweight draft prospect to navigating the challenges of the past year. Despite setbacks with injuries and off-field issues, Oliver believes Goodwin’s guidance and support have been crucial in helping him return to form.
Clayton Oliver was targeted by Marlion Pickett in a fiery melee during the Demons’ clash with Richmond on Wednesday night. Melbourne players rushed to Oliver’s aid after Pickett threw a punch at his stomach. Replays showed Pickett making contact with Oliver, who went down clutching his abdomen. Commentators suggested Pickett could face a suspension for the incident, while former Melbourne captain Nathan Jones said it was an open-hand blow. Despite the incident, Oliver returned to play and had 10 disposals in the first quarter. Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin said Oliver had been struggling with a finger injury in recent weeks and that the surgery had given him renewed energy.
Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin is expected to make changes to his forward line for Wednesday’s clash with Richmond, with Ben Brown set to miss out and Kysaiah Pickett returning from suspension. Clayton Oliver is also set to bounce back to top form after recovering from a finger injury. Richmond, meanwhile, will welcome back Jacob Hopper and Dylan Grimes.
