Fans man up as Demons play

THE chance of rain did little to dampen the spirits of Demons supporters as more than 2000 fans turned out to watch the Melbourne Football Club’s intra-club practice match at Casey Fields on Sunday.
Club president Jim Stynes said support for the club had climbed after the team’s performance had stabilised over the last few seasons.
“Our goal for this year is to get even better,” Stynes said.
“We are looking forward to getting out there and enjoying it this season. We want at least four wins, but we need more than that.”
The club is edging closer to its goal of 31,000 members, with 21,000 already signed up.
“It’s great to have so many members out showing they are ready to get behind the club this season,” Stynes said.
“Our membership has almost hit 22,000; way ahead of last year.”
Ten players sat out the practice match, including Jack Watts and Matthew Bate who are both suffering quad injuries.
“I hope to be back playing in six to eight weeks,” Watts said.
“It is disappointing to have this kind of injury after only a few weeks training. We still have some work to do but we have had a strong pre-season.”
Bate should be back on the field within three weeks.
For the practice game the players were divided into two evenly matched teams.
Despite the efforts on Jones (2), Maric (2) and Newton (2), playing in the white jersey, the red team won the day 91-82 thanks to two late goals from Liam Jurrah. Green (3) and Spencer (2) also helped the red’s secure bragging rights.
Following the match coach Dean Bailey had praise for new recruits Tom Scully and Jack Trengrove but would not reveal whether they would play in this weekend’s NAB cup clash with Fremantle.
“I thought all our young players contributed really well,” Bailey said.
The day also included children’s activities including a jumping castle and face painting. Following the game the players signed autographs and took pictures with their fans.