By James Dampney
GREATER Western Sydney midfielder Tom Scully hopes Melbourne fans have moved on from his decision to leave the Demons.
But there is little doubt the former No.1 draft pick will be in for a torrid reception when he heads to the MCG to face his former club for the first time this Sunday.
Scully faced enormous speculation throughout 2011 over whether he would accept an offer to leave Melbourne and join up with the AFL's newest club.
He has managed to avoid much of the spotlight since then, quietly going about his business and improving in a more defensive role with the Giants, but that is all set to change this week.
Aware of the interest, GWS wisely decided to present him to the media at the start of the week, and Scully has an idea what's coming at the MCG.
"Obviously I understand that it'll be a pretty hostile reception," he said.
"But I'm just looking forward to getting down there and it's a great opportunity for the boys to get down to Melbourne and play at the MCG for the first time, which is exciting for the group."
Teammate Callan Ward had a comparatively quiet switch from the Western Bulldogs to western Sydney, with most of his former teammates – publicly at least – understanding of his decision to change clubs.
Scully wasn't afforded quite the same understanding, but he keeps in touch with a few Demons, labelling young Melbourne midfielder Sam Blease one of his best mates.
And he hopes people have adjusted to his move.
"Obviously guys were disappointed, but I think they understood my decision and respected it," he said.
"From that point of view, I've had no issues from any of the players.
"Once it all eventuated that I was coming here, I'm sure the Melbourne people would've been disappointed, but we're all professional sportspeople, we've all got jobs to do and we all move on pretty quickly.
"It's been a long time since it's happened, I think most people have got over it, once it comes around there might be some boos, but I think people will get over it and get on with it."
Both teams will enter the match desperate for a win, with the two clubs currently stuck on one victory for the season.
Scully concedes he did have a look at the draw to see when he would be facing his former team for the first time and is preparing for a fierce contest.
"Yeah I had a look, but I knew it was a fair way down the track and it's been a long year so far," he said.
"It's come around pretty quickly, but it's just another game really and I'm looking forward to getting down there.
"I've got a role to play for the team and I'll be doing whatever I can to make sure I'm doing that.
"It's going to be a good game, both teams are going to be desperate for a win, and it should be a good contest."
James Dampney covers Sydney AFL news for AFL.com.au. Follow him on Twitter: @AFL_JD
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