The AFL's Wild Ride: From Premiership Pies to Wildcard Wins
The AFL is a rollercoaster of drama, and this season is no exception. From contract extensions to free agency chases, and from wildcard wins to painful losses, the league is full of twists and turns that keep fans on the edge of their seats. Let's dive into some of the key moments and stories that have shaped the season so far.
Premiership Pie's New Deal
Collingwood's Billy Frampton is on the verge of signing a new two-year deal, keeping him at the club until 2028. This is great news for the Magpies, who have benefited from Frampton's presence in their backline. The former Port Adelaide and Adelaide tall has been a key player, helping the team win the 2023 flag and limiting Harris Andrews' influence in the Grand Final. With his contract extension, Frampton will continue to be a cornerstone of the Magpies' defense.
Lachie Neale's Free Agency Chase
Collingwood is also in the running for Brisbane free agent Lachie Neale, who is weighing up his future. The Magpies are hoping to add Neale to their midfield, which has been struggling. With Neale's form this year, averaging more disposals, metres gained, and inside-50s, he would be a significant upgrade. However, the Pies face competition from other clubs, including the Western Bulldogs and Adelaide, who are also interested in Neale.
St Kilda's Late Errors
St Kilda's loss to Sydney was a missed opportunity, as they had led by 33 points in the second quarter. The Saints' recruits, including Tom De Koning and Liam Ryan, performed well, but they couldn't hold on. Ross Lyon will be disappointed, especially with the way Jai Serong was able to get space at the crucial final forward-50 stoppage to kick the matchwinner. The Saints' numbers at big contests also let them down, as they couldn't find their man on many occasions.
Gold Coast's Cloudy Stretch
Gold Coast's six-week stretch will make or break their season. After back-to-back defeats, the Suns head to Geelong, then face Hawthorn, Fremantle, Collingwood, Adelaide, and the Western Bulldogs. A good run will keep them in the top-six contention, while a bad stretch will put their wildcard position in jeopardy. The Suns' flat showing in the QClash was concerning, and coach Damien Hardwick has some problems to solve, including getting Matt Rowell back to his Brownlow Medal form.
North Melbourne's Key Defender Chase
North Melbourne needs to land a key defender, and they are suitors for Adelaide unrestricted free agent Jordon Butts. The Roos are also interested in Jordan Ridley, Charlie Ballard, Buku Khamis, and Mark Keane. With the young talent at his disposal, Alastair Clarkson is under pressure to make some big moves to keep the team competitive. The Roos are cashed up and ready to shop their first-round draft pick for the right player.
Adelaide's Crows Question
Adelaide's loss to Geelong would have put them in the spotlight, but they managed to steer the club to a vital one-point win. The Crows were organized and steady under pressure, with Daniel Curtin adding class and presence to their defense. Jordan Dawson's impact was even bigger, with his three goals and nine tackles continuing his brilliant form. The Crows have won four of their past five games and are still in the hunt for a finals spot.
The Wildcard Round
The Wildcard Round has added an exciting twist to the season, with more teams fighting for a finals spot deeper into the year. Teams on the fringes, like Carlton and North Melbourne, are now in the mix, and their performances have been crucial. The wildcard games could be fizzers if the top-six teams have an advantage, but they have certainly lengthened the interest catchment zone.
Assistance Packages
Assistance packages have been a controversial topic, but they can be effective if used wisely. Brisbane received an end-of-first round pick in 2016, which ended up being used in a deal for Charlie Cameron. Gold Coast picked up Sam Collins as part of their access to state league players, and he has won two best and fairests since then. North Melbourne was forced to trade its picks for players, landing Dylan Stephens and Riley Hardeman. These packages can make clubs better if they are used well.
Nick Watson's Coleman Medal Hunt
Nick Watson is in the hunt for the Coleman Medal, having been a top-10 player in the game this season. His performance against the Bulldogs was impressive, and he has been a key player for his team. Watson's ability to express himself and win games has made him a fan favorite, and he is living rent-free in the minds of many.
