Melbourne’s decision to deploy Clayton Oliver as a tagger in their recent match against Hawthorn has ignited a fierce debate about player treatment and team dynamics within the club. Oliver, who had previously taken a week off due to personal struggles, returned to the field in a surprising role that has drawn both praise and criticism from commentators and fans alike.
Oliver’s omission from the Round 8 win against West Coast was intriguing. It’s no surprise that the immensely talented midfielder has openly fought mental health issues in the past. Many are sympathetic to his choice to step away from the sport. Now, many are asking why the club is treating Oliver the way they are.
In the lead-up to the Hawthorn clash, Melbourne’s coach Simon Goodwin acknowledged the necessity of a tagging role for Oliver. He has consistently praised both Oliver and teammate Christian Petracca throughout the year, emphasizing a message of collective effort and unity. Charges against this practice, that it’s been done at the expense of team unity, are in circulation.
This treatment drew the ire of influential commentator Kane Cornes, who was very concerned about the so-called special treatment being delivered to Oliver and Petracca. He stated, “I’ve never seen a club and a coach pander to two players like Melbourne have done from the start of the year.” This sentiment highlights an ongoing discussion about the potential impact of catering to star players on the broader team dynamic.
Cornes stressed that the list is made up of “44 players, not two”. He then challenged Melbourne to focus on the collective group rather than focusing on the performances of the other nine players. He continued, “It’s unbelievable the amount of effort they have made to hype these two turds right from the start. What, then, of the supporting cast on the team? And what of the players that leave it all out there?
The criticism of Oliver reached a fever pitch during the off-season as he was subject to an improbable, but very real, trade speculation. In the end, he chose to remain with Melbourne after inking a record-breaking contract that runs through 2030. Oliver has already achieved remarkable individual success, including four best and fairests and three All-Australian selections. He’s had a hard time replicating that amazing performance this year.
Goodwin has been creative in finding ways to get Oliver involved and make him effective. He is committed to keeping the team’s spirit and morale intact while navigating these difficulties. Commentators like Nick Riewoldt have recognized Oliver’s mature decision to take time off for his mental health, stating, “I understand where Clayton’s coming from. Don’t just commend him for making the mature decision to take the week off because he was having a hard time, commend that 100 percent. To outsiders, he seemed more concerned about the excessive spotlight shining on Oliver’s performance, which could fracture team cohesion.
When Caroline Wilson reacted with righteous outrage to Cornes’ judgment on the treatment of Oliver that discussion went to new extremes. She said, “I’m just surprised by that perspective! I’m honestly surprised. Her response underscored the difficulty of perfectly supporting players navigating off-the-court challenges while still managing the workflow of a team.
As Melbourne wrestles with these new dynamics, their decision-making process will be watched closely by supporters and analysts alike. Getting Oliver reestablished as a difference maker again could be the key strategy. The tagger decision to play him this way addresses very short term issues in match ups against Hawthorn.
