Melbourne Wins A Thriller
Last updated: Jul 31, 2018, 12:36AM | Published: Jul 30, 2018, 5:09AM
Melbourne won what could be a season-defining game on Saturday night, winning a thriller in Adelaide against the Crows by 13 points. The Demons move closer now towards their first finals appearance in 12 years, whilst Adelaide's finals hopes are practically finished now with that defeat.
Adelaide had control of the game until midway through the second quarter, when the Demons kicked the first of nine of the next ten goals. They wouldn't look back, and although the Crows rallied in the final term it was not enough as the Demons snuck home.
Though they coughed up the win late last week against Geelong, Melbourne would not be denied this time around as they held firm late to deny the Crows and likely bring an end to what's been a disappointing season for last year's Grand Finalist.
Melbourne are still not safe on 11 wins and 7 losses, as they are sixth on the ladder on percentage. They are amongst the finals peloton, tied on 44 points alongside Hawthorn, Geelong and Sydney, who are ninth on the ladder after two surprise losses.
Jordan Lewis was able to celebrate his 300th game in style, kicking two key goals and tallying 21 disposals for the night.
Clayton Oliver was superb for the visitors, racking up 31 disposals, whilst Matt Crouch had 32 and Bryce Gibbs 27 for the unlucky hosts.
Despite leading the In-Play Win Probability at 81% in the second quarter, the Demons nine goal surge killed off Adelaide's chances from there, and they never got close again.
When Melbourne seized control halfway through the third term and led the In-Play Win Probability at 61%, they never relinquished control from there as they staked their claim for their first finals berth since 2006.
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