Unfortunately for Demons head coach Simon Goodwin, that won’t stop the pressure from mounting as speculation regarding his future continues to grow. Goodwin in 2021 took the club to their first historic Little League premiership. Now, he’s under the gun as all of a sudden analysts and former players are arguing with each other about his spot.
Ever since Melbourne won that AFL premiership in 1964, it’s been all downhill. In each of the next two national finals series they were unable to get past the first round. Unfortunately, last year the team had a very disappointing year finishing 14th and missing out on finals contention by a large margin. Observers have noted that Goodwin had ample opportunity to address the flaws in the team’s performance but was unable to implement successful changes.
Kane Cornes, who retired from the AFL in 2015, is now making headlines as a commentator. He thinks a shift is required at the coaching level. He stated, “I thought at the start of the year, he had a certain period to change and fix the flaws in their game plan, which he’s been unable to do, so I think the club needs a fresh start.” Cornes suggests that Alan Richardson, head of football operations, has had enough time in the job. He believes the time has come to judge Richardson against Goodwin.
Caroline Wilson was optimistic about Goodwin’s long-term future at the club. She remarked, “I was bullish on Simon Goodwin. I still reckon they’ll stick with Simon Goodwin.” This opinion stands against the backdrop of a scheduled meeting among Melbourne’s board on Monday night, where no immediate decision on Goodwin’s fate was anticipated.
Nick Riewoldt provides an eye opening counter perspective that further complicates and enriches the debate. He admits the players are as much or more to blame though, and not only Goodwin. He commented, “I think there will be change in every aspect of the football club, I’m less conclusive on the coaching aspect and more conclusive on the playing aspect.” Riewoldt emphasized that while he expects changes within the organization, he primarily sees issues stemming from player performance.
Not enough has been said about the Melbourne’s overall trajectory since its premiership—especially when considering their current strategy and execution. As the club’s future is debated amid the fallout from the season, Goodwin’s contract still runs through the end of 2024. This consideration can have a huge influence on the board’s actions and decisions. They will consider immediate impact versus a long-term vision for the team’s success.
