From leading the ladder at 7-0 to struggling to stay in the top eight, is it time for Geelong to confront a question they’ve delayed for decades?
Plus, Ken Hinkley faces rising pressure, a young star boosts his trade value weekly, and there’s a lukewarm reaction to a bold finals suggestion.
Here are the major issues from Round 15 of the 2024 AFL season, analyzed in Talking Points.
Trade Gamble and Unthinkable Question Geelong Must Face
After an uncharacteristically heavy loss, Geelong coach Chris Scott remains optimistic about the team’s future. However, the Cats’ approach of regenerating on the run, which has worked for nearly two decades, faces significant challenges. The Cats suffered a 63-point loss to an in-form Carlton, their fourth-biggest loss under Scott.
Carlton’s efficiency, scoring 21 goals from 58 inside 50s, was unprecedented against a Geelong team. Nathan Buckley of Fox Footy noted Geelong’s midfielders were caught off guard, creating defensive imbalances. Matthew Lloyd highlighted multiple team weaknesses and questioned the Cats’ ability to make the finals.
Geelong’s list is the most experienced and second-oldest in the competition. Their future may depend on tough decisions about their older players, including potential retirements. The Cats are linked to Bailey Smith and Josh Battle, but acquiring such players might require significant draft capital, a risky move with a 19th team on the horizon.
Hinkley’s Seat Heats Up
Ken Hinkley’s position at Port Adelaide is under intense scrutiny after a 79-point loss to Brisbane, marking their third consecutive defeat. Kane Cornes expressed concern over the team’s declining effort, which should have been stronger on a day commemorating the club’s premiership win 20 years ago.
Port Adelaide’s defensive issues are highlighted by poor performances from recent acquisitions. With an 8-6 record, the club faces an uncertain future, potentially turning to midfield assistant Josh Carr as Hinkley’s successor. However, Cornes warns against prematurely appointing Carr without a thorough search for the best candidate.
Emerging Star Raises Trade Value
Luke Davies-Uniacke’s stellar performance for North Melbourne, including 31 disposals in a narrow loss to Melbourne, is boosting his trade value. With his contract talks on hold, rival clubs like St Kilda, Essendon, and Adelaide are reportedly interested. Davies-Uniacke’s commitment to improving North Melbourne’s fortunes remains strong, but his rising stock could make him a prime target for other teams.
Bold Finals Suggestion Meets Lukewarm Response
Gold Coast CEO Mark Evans proposed that Victorian clubs should play their first finals week at an away venue, given their year-round home advantage. This suggestion aimed to address the perceived imbalance of playing the Grand Final at the MCG. Carlton coach Michael Voss, however, believes that if a team is good enough, they will win regardless of the venue.
With the AFL Grand Final locked at the MCG until 2059, the proposal may prompt further discussion about fairness in finals venues.
