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Justin Chadwick

Demons jump to the defence of out-of-form spearhead

Van Rooyen Jacob van Rooyen Simon Goodwin Chad Warner Isaac Heeney Clayton Oliver Melbourne

Jacob Van Rooyen's year hasn't been as grand as his last two, but the Dees still like what they see. (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)

Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin reckons the criticism levelled at Jacob van Rooyen has been unfair, saying the out-of-form spearhead will play a key role in the club's future.

Van Rooyen enjoyed a meteoric start to his AFL career, kicking 28.9 in his debut season and following it up with 30.16 last year.

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