Golf discussions with Dusty, a surprising first half, and the coach’s second chance: Melbourne’s star player navigates an unusual AFL match.

When Steven May and Dustin Martin face off at the MCG, their conversation isn’t filled with taunts or trash talk; instead, they discuss their upcoming golf outings. May’s Demons outplayed Martin’s Tigers on Anzac Day Eve, securing a 43-point victory after a remarkable second half performance with 10 goals to two. Despite occasional showdowns between May and Martin, with Martin pushed forward due to teammate absences, their respect for each other was evident. May mentioned that their interactions were lighthearted, focusing on their shared interest in golf rather than on-field banter.

Approaching the matchup with Martin, May admitted to adjusting his game due to Martin’s status as a respected figure in the sport. He acknowledged the need to be cautious, particularly when Martin was positioned deep in attack. Despite the pressure, May expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete against such a talented player, highlighting Martin’s remarkable career achievements.

The game itself was marked by errors and turnovers in the first half, with both teams struggling. Despite trailing at halftime, Melbourne rallied in the second half, spurred on by coach Simon Goodwin’s encouragement to play more confidently. May described the first half performance as “shocking” and praised the team’s ability to regroup and execute their game plan effectively after the break.

Reflecting on a previous loss to Brisbane, May admitted to feeling fatigued during that match but credited Brisbane’s strong performance. He emphasized the importance of bouncing back from defeats and commended Brisbane’s quality as opponents. Additionally, May expressed the honor he feels playing on the Anzac Day Eve stage, acknowledging the significance of the occasion and the privilege of representing Melbourne in such a meaningful game.