After eight weeks of AFL action, the league’s ladder has begun to take shape, with the Sydney Swans soaring to second place following an impressive performance that brought the Hawthorn Hawks back down to earth.
Throughout the season, certain teams have emerged as major contenders, with Sydney and GWS standing out from the start. Geelong has also asserted its dominance, remaining undefeated and firmly positioned atop the ladder, showcasing its contender status over the past 15 years.
"That's the seventh or eighth time we've seen a player slip over."
A scary-looking slip for Aaron Naughton – he's not been the only one to lose his footing #AFLFreoDogs pic.twitter.com/XSP2EpCww9
— 7AFL (@7AFL) April 27, 2024
Meanwhile, Essendon has emerged as a dark horse, displaying impressive form, particularly highlighted by their recent draw against Collingwood. Fremantle and Gold Coast have also proven to be formidable opponents, especially on their home turf.
On the flip side, teams like North Melbourne and Hawthorn continue to struggle, facing heavy defeats and grappling with their form. Richmond has been plagued by injuries, while West Coast suffered a setback against Gold Coast, highlighting areas for improvement.
As the season progresses, history suggests that there will be minimal changes to the top eight, with only one or two alterations expected. Teams currently occupying finals spots should remain vigilant, as there is still much football to be played before the finals series.
In other news, Channel 7’s AFL broadcast has faced criticism, particularly regarding commentary quality and camera work. While some criticism may be exaggerated, there are valid concerns about maintaining high broadcast standards and effectively capturing the essence of the game.
Additionally, Brisbane’s recent performance against GWS raised questions about their premiership aspirations, as they face the reality of a challenging season ahead. Conversely, Fremantle showcased a remarkable transformation in their style of play, demonstrating their potential as genuine premiership contenders.
Amidst the action on the field, Essendon coach Brad Scott has emerged as one of the league’s most underrated coaches, implementing positive changes and instilling a new level of competitiveness within the team.
Finally, the debate surrounding draws in AFL matches has resurfaced, with many arguing for alternative tie-breaker methods. However, draws add excitement and unpredictability to the game, enhancing the overall experience for fans and players alike.
As the season unfolds, fans can expect more thrilling encounters and captivating storylines as teams vie for supremacy in the race to the finals.
