Max Gawn Responds to Critics After Clayton Oliver’s Absence from 250th Game Celebrations Due to Illness

Max Gawn has responded to speculation suggesting he and Melbourne were disheartened by Clayton Oliver’s absence during the ruckman’s 250th match against Carlton on Sunday.

On Monday, journalist Caroline Wilson reported that the Demons were disappointed with Oliver for skipping the celebrations, despite having received an invitation.

The midfielder, who was traded from Melbourne to GWS during the off-season, was enjoying his bye week over the weekend.

The frustration is said to be linked to Oliver’s past as a premiership teammate of Gawn, alongside the captain’s significant role in guiding him throughout his career.

Several former Demons attended Gawn’s landmark match, including Tom McDonald, who also celebrated his 250th game, and Collingwood’s Jeremy Howe, premiership Demon Michael Hibberd, as well as retired players Sam Frost and Sam Weideman.

Oliver, however, was conspicuously absent.

Gawn has dismissed Wilson’s claims of any discontent, clarifying that Oliver fell ill with a cold.

“He actually changed his flight to make it here. He was making a big effort; we were in touch all weekend, and he was genuinely proud of me,” Gawn explained during an appearance on Triple M’s Mick in the Morning.

“He fell ill on Sunday, so it was the correct decision for him to not attend. Players like Christian Petracca, Luke Jackson, and Oscar McDonald are on interstate clubs, and I keep in contact with them,” Gawn added.

Oliver’s time with Melbourne ended on a negative note after new coach Steven King requested that he seek a new club during the trade period.

The 28-year-old subsequently signed with GWS and has made a strong start to the season.

Oliver also seemed to take a jab at the Dees following a recent victory, indicating that the Giants had superior training and preparation methods.

In the milestone match, Gawn and his teammates rose to the occasion, outscoring Carlton 99-33 from late in the second quarter to overcome a 43-point deficit and secure victory.

The Blues face considerable scrutiny following their dismal performance, having struggled in three consecutive second halves to start the season, losing two leads in the process.

However, Gawn believes the Demons should be praised for their outstanding comeback, rather than Carlton receiving criticism for their collapse.

“I recognise the narrative surrounding Carlton, but I feel our second half was why we secured the win, not merely Carlton’s drop-off. I understand the storyline, but I thought we played quite well,” Gawn stated.

Looking ahead, Melbourne is set to host Gold Coast at the MCG in round four, which was anticipated to be Christian Petracca’s return to face his former club.

Unfortunately, Petracca is now expected to miss about a month due to a hamstring injury sustained in round two.