Melbourne fans breathed a collective sigh of relief this week as the club confirmed that Simon Goodwin will remain as coach for the 2025 season. The decision comes after a tumultuous period, punctuated by a concerning performance against Essendon during Gather Round, which raised serious questions about Goodwin’s future.

The Gather Round clash saw Essendon deliver a surprisingly dominant display, leaving many to wonder if Goodwin’s tenure was nearing its end. Essendon, while not consistently a top-tier contender, showcased a level of intensity and tactical sharpness that exposed vulnerabilities within the Demons’ game plan. The Bombers’ victory wasn’t just a win; it was a statement, casting a long shadow over Goodwin’s leadership.

However, Melbourne’s leadership group and the club’s hierarchy ultimately decided that Goodwin had done “enough” to warrant another season. While acknowledging the need for improvement, they cited Goodwin’s track record of success – including the 2021 premiership – as a key factor in their decision. The club believes that with targeted adjustments and a renewed focus, the Demons can still contend for silverware.

Why Goodwin Gets Another Chance

Several factors contributed to the decision to retain Goodwin. Firstly, Essendon’s performance shouldn't be viewed in isolation. While impressive, the Bombers haven’t consistently demonstrated championship-level form throughout the season. Secondly, Goodwin has fostered a strong culture within the Demons, and disrupting that stability mid-season would be a risky move. Replacing a coach with experience and a proven ability to build a premiership-winning team is rarely a simple or immediate solution.

Furthermore, Melbourne's list management is strong, and the club is well-positioned to challenge in the coming years. The focus now shifts to supporting Goodwin and providing him with the resources he needs to address the team’s shortcomings. This includes refining the game plan, improving player accountability, and ensuring the team is mentally prepared for the pressures of finals football.

The Road Ahead for the Demons

The pressure is now firmly on Goodwin to deliver results. He needs to demonstrate that he can adapt to the evolving landscape of the AFL and address the concerns raised by the Essendon defeat. The club’s supporters will be demanding to see a significant improvement in performance, particularly in key areas such as midfield pressure and defensive stability.

Ultimately, Goodwin’s future beyond 2025 will depend on the team’s performance this season. While he’s been granted a reprieve, the clock is ticking. Melbourne’s ambitions remain high, and anything less than a serious finals campaign will likely spell the end of his coaching career at the club.