2018 Brownlow Medal Predictor

Richmond 81 – Essendon 73

MCG

The Tigers are the 2018 minor premiers and Essendon……well, there’s always next year again. Richmond proved it is as much about the process as it is personnel hanging on to claim another win at the G with Dusty doing Dusty things. His 4 goals and 26 possessions at the pointy end of the season will have Tigers fans licking their lips for back to back.

Collingwood 115 – Port Adelaide 64

MCG

Complete list of players to have had 25+ disposals, 40+ hitouts, 5+ tackles and 1+ goals in a game = Brodie Grundy, 2018 Rnd 22, COLL v PORT. 3 votes Brodie Grundy.

Geelong 158 – Fremantle 25

GMHBA Stadium

That was bad. Tim Kelly was good. If he does end up going home, it wont be cheaply. 26 disposals and 3.2 in what was another classy performance has the 1st year player looking more and more like an A grader.

GWS 60 – Sydney 80

Skoda Stadium

Buddy Franklin must have trained the house down in the last 3 weeks… The superstar forward kicked 5.4 and in doing so moved into 8th position on the AFL’s all time goal scorers chart moving past Leigh Matthews. Add to that a victory and the Brett Kirk medal, and you may as well give him the 3 also.

Gold Coast 74 – Lions 78

Metricon Stadium

If Dayne Beams is coming home, he’s worth plenty. Time and time again he proves his class and Saturday night was no exception. In what was a tight tussle, the star midfielder won the Marcus Ashcroft medal collecting 38 disposals and was a class above in his sides 4 point win.

St Kilda 76 – Hawthorn 80

Etihad Stadium

Hawthorn has survived a huge scare from St Kilda to hold on for a four-point win at Etihad Stadium and set up a thrilling final-round battle for a top-four spot with Sydney. Jack Gunston played chief destroyer with 4 crucial goals while Jack Steele played one of his best for the Saints collecting 29 and keeping Tom Mitchell to a measly 33 touches.

Carlton 49 – Bulldogs 66

Etihad Stadium

The Bulldogs recorded their third-straight win in a low-scoring slugfest at Etihad with Josh Dunkley, Lachie Hunter, Marcus Bontempelli and Jack Macrae’s influence all beginning to seep through as the game reached its final stages.

West Coast 91 – Melbourne 108

Optus Stadium

Melbourne are September bound! The Demons have broken their 12 year finals drought and can thank their Giant ruckman Max Gawn for getting them there. The soon to be 2018 All Australian ruckman was instrumental with 20 disposals, 39 hit-outs and seven clearances in what was a standout performance in a crucial game for the club.

Adelaide 86 – North Melbourne 77

Adelaide Oval

Adelaide survived a massive scare from North Melbourne to end the Kangaroos’ faint finals chances with a nine-point victory. A statline that reads 46 disposals, 17 contested possessions, 9 clearances, 5 tackles, 4 marks, 4 I50’s and 6 score involvements has Matt Crouch in poll position for best on ground

Essendon 122 – St.Kilda 79

Etihad Stadium

Despite only having 18 on the field come the last term, Essendon made them look 2nd rate and in doing so, kept their slim finals hopes alive. In an even spread of contributors, Anthony Mcdonald Tipungwudi’s 5 goals and David Myers 2 goals and 29 possessions were standouts in the 43 point victory.

Hawthorn 71 – Geelong 60

MCG

Hawthorn survived another cliffhanger with Geelong to triumph by 11 points and strengthen their top 4 chances. Isaac Smith’s 2 goals from the midfield were crucial in the win, but it could be Gary Ablett’s 32 possessions and 3 goals that gets the 3.

Gold Coast 51 – Richmond 125

Metricon Stadium

26 touches, 14 marks, 20 score involvements and a lazy 10 goals is probably enough to be awarded best afield for Jack Riewoldt.

Port Adelaide 58 – West Coast 62

Adelaide Oval

Amazingly, the Eagles did not lead at any stage from siren to siren until Jeremy McGovern did the unthinkable and kicked a goal after the siren to ruin Port Adelaide’s Premiership hopes for a second year running. He may not have kicked the winner this time, but Luke Shuey was instrumental in the fightback, collecting 31 disposals and 11 clearances carrying his team over the line.

Collingwood 104 – Lions 73

Etihad Stadium

If the Rising Star is measured on influence, Jaidyn Stephenson is the winner.  The first year player was everywhere Saturday night, collecting 25 disposals and two goals in the Pies 31 point win.

GWS 106 – Adelaide 92

Skoda Stadium

Death, taxes and GWS injuries.  The Giants lost a few more soldiers in their chase for September glory but did enough for the 4 points.  Former No.1 draft pick Lachie Whitfield (30 possessions) and co-captain Callan Ward were shining lights in the 14 point win.

North Melbourne 85 – Bulldogs 92

Etihad Stadium

Having trailed by 28 points at half-time, the Dogs kicked nine goals to three after the main break to breeze past the Kangaroos and claim a deserved seven point win.  For the first time in AFL history, the Western Bulldogs had 3 players with 40 or more disposals.  Lachie Hunter, Jack Macrae and Caleb Daniel were prolific all day and all have claims for 3 votes.

Melbourne 78 – Sydney 87

MCG

The Swans stood up to claim an emotional and against-the-odds win over Melbourne and at the same time, put a massive dent in the Dees finals aspirations. A difficult one to allocate but Isaac Heeney’s 2 goals/ 19 possessions and arguably mark of the year played a big role in the crucial win.

Fremantle 101 – Carlton 72

Optus Stadium

Gun midfielder Lachie Neale (34 disposals, 10 clearances) continued his stellar campaign and was chief destroyer in the comfortable 31 point victory.

Richmond 85 – Geelong 82

MCG

The Cats threw everything they had at the Tigers, but the reigning premiers prevailed in a classic. Not for the first time, it’s a Richmond game we’re finding difficult to allocate votes with another win thanks to an even spread of contributors. Patrick Dangerfield (39 possessions and eight clearances), Joel Selwood (37 and nine clearances) and Tim Kelly (36 possessions and 1 goal) are all worthy of 3 votes in a losing side.

Hawthorn 107 – Essendon 103

MCG

We didn’t get the spiteful clash we’re accustomed too but we we were treated to an epic nonetheless. Hawthorn got the chocolates in a game that had huge ramifications for both sides and Tom Mitchell may just have Charlie wrapped up.

Brisbane 104 – North Melbourne 107

Gabba

The Kangas hierarchy owe Cam Rayner a beer. The young Lion is going to be a gun (if not already) but a lack of composure late in the game kept North Melbourne’s finals hopes well and truly alive. Jack Ziebell stood up in Shaun Higgins absence with a classy 26 disposals and 3.2 in a best on ground performance.

Adelaide 96 – Port Adelaide 93

Adelaide Oval

A coat of paint (or not?) was the difference in another heart-stopping Showdown. Matt Crouch was brilliant with his inside contested work, finishing with a game-high 35 disposals, while Bryce Gibbs turned in a strong performance in his 250th game.

St Kilda 68 – Bulldogs 103

Etihad Stadium

‘Super Saturday’ hit a bit of a speed bump under the roof at Etihad but Bulldogs supporters couldn’t care less. Jason Johannisen was at his damaging best collecting a career high 42 possessions in an impressive come from behind victory.

Sydney 73 – Collingwood 71

SCG

For a guy who’s supposedly trained 20 minutes total for the year, Buddy Franklin is pretty handy. The power forward feasted on the Pies injury plagued back-line to register 6.4 in what was a match winning performance.

Carlton 46 – GWS 151

Etihad Stadium

Despite having no one on the bench for the majority of the 2nd half, the Giants did it with ease, and not for the first time, Josh Kelly looked a class above. The midfielder finished with 41 disposals, 10 clearances, 16 inside 50s and four goal assists justifying his position as one of the game’s best players.

Melbourne  143 – Gold Coast 47

MCG

With a big 3 weeks ahead of them, the Dees accomplished what they set out to do by thumping the Suns in an all important percentage boosting victory. Star midfielder Clayton Oliver was again prolific, collecting 31 disposals/ 11 marks and two goals playing predominately forward.

West Coast 142 – Fremantle 84

Optus Stadium

Andrew Gaff has a date with the tribunal on Tuesday night and Tom Mitchell’s grip on this years Brownlow Medal may now be too much to overcome.

Essendon 109 – Sydney 66

Marvel Stadium 

Speed kills. The Dons have it in spades and the Swans were made to look like they were playing in concrete boots. Dyson Heppell was at his accumulative best with 31 disposals and David Myers played arguably his best game for the club with 25 touches and 1.3.

Richmond 105 – Collingwood 77

MCG

To quote Titus O’Reily, “Another game for the ‘footy desperately needs to be fixed’ file..”. Both sides put on a classic that had all the feels of a last Saturday in September. Difficult one for allocation with no Tigers player touching the ball more than 22 times. 37 disposals and 13 clearances from Scott Pendlebery has him every chance to poll three in a losing game.

Geelong 64 – Brisbane 78

GMHBA

Tom Hawkins became the first person to score 7+ goals in consecutive weeks since Drew Petrie in 2012 and the first Geelong player since Gary Ablett snr in 1995.  Enough for 3 votes.

GWS 86 – St Kilda 61

Spotless Stadium

Those who wrote GWS off mid-season are slowly starting to jump back on the bandwagon. Josh Kelly (32 touches), Stephen Coniglio (29) and Heath Shaw (25) were the chief ball-winners in what was a sluggish victory, while Lachie Whitfield continued his brilliant form across half-back finishing the night with 32 possessions and 11 marks.

Carlton 79 – Gold Coast 44

Metricon Stadium

It was a sight for sore eyes. The Blues broke through for their second win of the season and after recommitting for a further two years, Patrick Cripps produced the following: 38 disposals/ 17 contested possessions/ 26 presuure acts/ 11 tackles/ 6 score involvements/ 5 clearances/ 1 goal/ 173 SC points and 3 votes.

Melbourne 90 – Adelaide 77

Adelaide Oval

Adelaide’s hopes of returning to the big dance are all but dead.  The Crows refused to go away as rain poured down in the final quarter but it wasn’t enough to reel in the 32 point 3QT deficit.  Any doubt over Melbourne star Clayton Oliver, who had a tight quad at training on Wednesday, was dispelled with another brilliant performance, taking advantage of Max Gawn’s 66 hitouts with 31 possessions and 14 clearances.

North Melbourne 81 – West Coast 41

Blundstone Arena

Paul Ahern looks incredible value for pick 69.  His 37 disposals, 22 contested possessions, 12 clearances and 5 I50’s were influential in the Kangas crucial 40 point win.

Port Adelaide 78 – Western Bulldogs 34

Mars Stadium

Unsure if Tourism Ballarat will be fielding many calls today. Rain, sun, howling wind and even some hail thrown in for good measure was the order of the day with the Power doing enough to secure their position in the top half. We’ve gone with Polec’s 32 possessions and Charlie Dixon’s 5 goals as the standouts in what was a difficult game to allocate votes.

Hawthorn 112 – Fremantle 53

Perth Stadium

Gillon McLachlan’s going to stretch this one out: T………..Mitchell, 3 votes.

St Kilda 57 – Richmond 111

Etihad Stadium

The Tigers went another step closer to securing top spot and Dion Prestia proved why he’s rated so highly internally.  26 disposals and 3 goals puts him in the box seat for the three votes.  

Collingwood 130 – North Melbourne 64

MCG

Even with the lengthy injury list, the Pies outclassed the Kangaroos from the outset.  Scott Pendlebury was at his prolific best with 30 possessions and Jordan De Goey continues to justify his lofty price tag kicking four majors.

Sydney 64 – Gold Coast 88

SCG

Not since the Gordan Bombay inspired Mighty Ducks and their triumph over Team Iceland has there been a greater upset.  The Suns chased down a 29 point deficit to prevail in arguably their greatest win to date.  In an even spread of contributors, off season recruit Lachie Wellar was the most influential kicking the sealer and collecting 23 crucial possessions.

Essendon 99 – Fremante 70

Etihad Stadium

Try not to read this in BT’s painful voice but Oraaaazio Fantasia provided the class and composure the game was lacking to stand out in a forgettable 29 point victory for the Bombers.  His 5 goals and 19 possessions were a class above.

Brisbane 88 – Adelaide 93

Gabba

With little separating the two sides for the entire night it was Adelaide’s slight edge in polish that proved the difference.  Hugh Greenwood was superb in a forward role, kicking four goals, while Matt Crouch (40 disposals) and Rory Laird (29 and a goal) were also brilliant for the victors.

Geelong 100 – Melbourne 98

GMHBA Stadium

Melbourne did what only Melbourne could do.  Lose the un-loseable.   The Cats were able to claw back a 23 point final quarter deficit thanks to a vintage display from Tom Hawkins who kicked four of his seven goals in the last quarter to celebrate his 30th birthday in style.

Carlton 52 – Hawthorn 124

Etihad Stadium

The line ‘our supporters need to remain patient’ must be starting to wear thin with the Blues faithful.  This season needs to end stat!  For Hawthorn, it was mission accomplished and 3 votes to Tom Mitchell.  The Brownlow medal favourite was prolific, finishing with 46 touches and two goals.

West Coast 100 – Bulldogs 46

Optus Stadium

One week in and life without Nic Naitanui is bearable.  The Eagles took some time to work themselves out around clearances without the star ruckman, but gun midfielders Luke Shuey (28 disposals), Elliot Yeo (28, one goal) and Andrew Gaff (34) were able to turn the tide after the Dogs’ fast start.

Port Adelaide 58 – GWS 80

Adelaide Oval

Do we finally have a genuine contender that can take it up to the Tigers?  Slot a Jeremy Cameron and Tom Scully into this side and they look extremely dangerous on current form.  Heath Shaw played his best game for the year with 10 rebound 50’s and 28 disposals while usual suspects Lachie Whitfield (31 touches) and Josh Kelly (30 touches) were crucial to the 22 point victory.

Adelaide 112 – Geelong 97

Adelaide Oval

One teams finals dream remains alive and the other’s sits precariously on the edge of collapse. The Crows celebrated Rory Sloane’s re-signing in style and with 27 disposals (each with a 3 minute standing ovation) is every chance of polling the three votes.

St. Kilda 116 – Carlton 52

Etihad Stadium

Here’s hoping Gil Mclachlan was forced to watch this trash. If he wasn’t convinced by their last 11 Friday night games surely the 12th (making it an average losing margin of  60 points) was enough to banish the Blues from any blockbuster time-slot for a goof 7 years. St. Kilda were made to look like a good team as they cruised to a 64 point victory and not for the first time, Jack Steven was everywhere, kicking two goals and collecting 33 disposals in a best on ground performance.

Hawthorn 65 – Brisbane 98

UTAS

The Lions are fast becoming one of the more exciting teams to watch in the competition. In what was arguably the sides best win under Fagan, the second year coach became the first of Alastair Clarkson’s lieutenants to beat him twice in a season. Dayne Beams again lead the young side to victory which has us allocating the classy midfielder a total of 8.5 of a possible 9 votes over the last three rounds.

Melbourne 119 – Western Bulldogs 69

MCG

A 12 minute stretch in the third term that produced a blistering seven unanswered goals to the Demons was enough to put their first half struggles to bed. Angus Brayshaw feasted on Max Gawn’s ruck dominance and both should feature in the voting.

GWS 79 – Richmond 77

Spotless Stadium

Carlton and Richmond are the only two teams yet to win outside their home city this season. One sits 18th and the other, first. With the likes of Callan Ward and Lachie Whitfield collecting 30+ disposals, GWS once again breathed life back into their topsy-turvy season.

Gold Coast 51 – Essendon 95

Metricon Stadium

Not for the first time this year, both sides found themselves smack bang in the middle of a shocker. Essendon though, did enough to keep their faint hopes of a finals birth alive with a crucial 44 point victory. Dyson Heppell and Zach Merrett look to be the front runners for best afield collecting 37 and 36 possessions respectively.

Collingwood 67 – West Coast 102

MCG

It had been long wait for the Eagles. Round 2, 1995 to be exact. 23 years but finally they registered a win vs the Pies at the MCG and in doing so proved the hoodoo is long gone. Defender Jeremy McGovern was outstanding for the Eagles with a succession of intercept marks and spoils that restricted the damage early in the contest, while Andrew Gaff once again collected another 30 disposals.

North Melbourne 98 – Sydney 104

Etihad Stadium

No need for Rule changes. Punters were treated to another pulsating game under the lid with the Swans snatching the lead when it mattered most. In a brilliant showing up the other end though, it was Jack Ziebell’s 22 disposals, 9 marks and 5 goals that has us allocating the three for best afield.

Fremantle 59 – Port Adelaide 50

Optus Stadium

With everything to play for and up against a depleted Freo side playing for little more than pride, the Power put in a pea heart like performance. In superstar Nat Fyfe’s absence, it was David Mundy who stole the show putting in a vintage performance collecting classy 29 disposals.

Sydney 59 – Geelong 71

Melbourne 102 – Fremantle 48

TIO Stadium

The Demons dominated from the outset and despite some inaccurate kicking for goal, were untroubled, recording a comfortable 54 point win. Lead my Clayton Oliver’s 35 disposals and 2 goals, the Dees midfield had a field day against the undermanned Dockers.

North Melbourne 95 – Gold Coast 58

Etihad Stadium

Not too often do you hear Scott Thompson come up in conversation when talking Brownlow Medal. The maligned defender has only polled 1 vote since 2015 but with 31 disposals, he was impenetrable down back and quite possibly the pick of the bunch over his more fancied teammates.

Essendon 62 – Collingwood 78

MCG

Richmond 93 – Sydney 67

GWS 95 – Hawthorn 84

Skoda Stadium

Does 50 possessions guarantee 3 votes? Were they as damaging as Callan Wards 32 disposals, 11 clearances, 9 score involvements and 2 goals? It’s a race in two but we’ve got Ward edging out Tom Mitchell with the 11 point victory to GWS the deciding factor.

Melbourne 117 – St.Kilda 119

MCG

The Dees made it three successive losses and are teetering on the edge of the 8 and if not for Max Gawn’s 25 possessions and 39 hitouts, a two point defeat could have been much worse.

Essendon 125 – North Melbourne 108

Etihad Stadium

West Coast 52 – Essendon 80

Optus Stadium

Essendon are comfortably the hardest team to get a handle on this year.  A 75% win rate when their starting price is >$3 but find a way to lose to the likes of Carlton and the Western Bulldogs in between. With the first 8 goals of the game, the Dons had the game wrapped up 5 minutes into the second quarter.  Adam Saad was electric from half back with six bounces, four I50’s in along with 26 disposals.

Port Adelaide 75 – Melbourne 65

Adelaide Oval

Port Adelaide are counting their lucky stars Ollie Wines has signed on for another four years.  His 28 disposals, 8 clearances, five I50’s and 18 contested possessions played a pivotal role in Port’s come from behind win.

Hawthorn 96 – Gold Coast 43

University of Tasmania Stadium

Trailing by 9 points at quarter time, the Hawks overcame a sluggish start to beat the Suns by 53 points and register their 8th win of the season.  Any one of half a dozen Hawks have claims for best afield but we’re thinking it’ll be Luke Breust’s influential 21 disposals and two goals that’ll go the closest.

Brisbane 82 – GWS 109

Gabba

Josh Kelly possesses all the attributes of a Brownlow medalist.  His 30 possessions and two goals were a class above an already star studded midfield and should see him poll for the 3rd time in four weeks since his return from injury.

Western Bulldogs 75 – North Melbourne 77

Etihad Stadium

On the back of another influential game in a stirring Kangaroos win, Shaun Higgins is rapidly moving up the leader board and into brownlow Medal contention.  His 32 disposals and 2 goals was hard to ignore and with the likes of Nat Fyfe and Jack Macrae faltering in recent weeks, only Tom Mitchell is ahead of him in our voting.

Collingwood 79 – Carlton 59

MCG

The biggest talking point of the match from a Brownlow perspective was another monster performance from Patrick Cripps.  29 Disposals (20 contested), 7 clearances and 3 goals has us allocating him the three and looming large in the outright.  We’ve got him polling in 61% of matches and many marked down based on losing margins.  He could be anywhere on the leaderboard.

Port Adelaide 132 – Western Bulldogs 75

Adelaide Oval

In a disastrous night for the Western Bulldogs, it was the injury toll that was the salt in the 57 point wound. The Dogs suffered two huge blows when Brownlow Medal contender Jack Macrae and skipper Easton Wood left the game with hamstring injuries and  they provided little resistance thereafter. On a cold and wet night dominated by the Power’s midfield, it was Robbie Gray’s 28 disposals, six clearances and three goals that has us allocating 2.5 votes and slightly edging out the 35 disposals of Ollie Wines.

Sydney Swans 72 – West Coast 57

SCG

Sydney did Sydney things on Friday night. The home side’s defence was superb and the catalyst to their second victory over the ladder leaders this season. There was an even spread of contributors from the Swans and without a notable standout it makes this a difficult one to judge. However, it’s hard not to recognise Elliot Yeo’s 29 disposals, 13 I50’s, two goals, eight tackles and 735 metres gained as the front runner for three votes.

Carlton 46 – Fremantle 103

Etihad Stadium

The -3.5 start line for the Dockers looked too good to be true in hindsight as the 70 point half time margin said it all. Lachie Neale was outstanding for the Dockers with 33 disposals and three goals. Nat Fyfe was also not far behind but you start to wonder, does ineligibility bring about harsher voting?  I’m no conspiracy theorist but that 2017 round 22 game of Patrick Dangerfield, post-suspension, remains fresh in the mind.  He racked up 32 disposals, 2 goals, 12 clearances, 5 inside 50s and 142 supercoach points that produced no votes. One to think about, but we’re allocating him the two.

Gold Coast Suns 78 – St Kilda 80

Metricon Stadium

For the neutrals, a match involving two clubs desperate for a win went exactly as hoped, down to the final minute.  Match winner Jade Gresham and his 23 disposals and last minute heroics is as worthy as any for the three votes.

Hawthorn 88 – Adelaide Crows 32

MCG

Last year’s grand finalists are in serious danger of missing the finals for the first time in four years. The Crows had no answers to a third quarter James Sicily lead Hawks onslaught. The once maligned, now universally loved Sicily went at 88% efficiency, kicking three goals in the third quarter and setting up a comfortable 56 point win.

Geelong 65 – Richmond 83

MCG

As they’ve done so often in final quarters this season, the Tigers found an extra gear when it mattered. Another difficult game to allocate votes however Nick Vlastuin’s 21 disposals, 11 marks and six rebound 50’s should be one of the front runners to poll the three.

Port Adelaide 72 – Richmond 58

Adelaide Oval

A seven goal to two 2nd Quarter was enough to capitalise on a Dusty-less Tigers outfit.  Victorian clubs were left salivating watching out of contract Ollie Wines put up a statline that had 29 disposals, 16 contested, 7 clearances, 10 I50’s and 12 tackles in what will go close to a best on ground performance.

Geelong 96 – North Melbourne 59

GMHBA Stadium

In his 200th game for the Cats, Gary Ablett will poll 3 votes.  Aside from his 34 possessions it was his 16 contested possessions and late goal that highlighted to the competition that the little master sill has a few tricks up his sleeve.

GWS 134 – Gold Coast 26

Metricon Stadium

The game lived up to the lack of hype and delivered a shocker.  Gold Coast were lambs to the slaughter as GWS continued its mid-season resurgence demolishing the Suns by 108 points.  Many have claims to poll votes however 6 goals and 26 disposals is hard to ignore from Coleman medal chance Jeremy Cameron.

St Kilda 55 – Sydney 126

Etihad Stadium

A Swans blitz saw the Saints concede nine first quarter goals. The Swans were every bit impressive with Josh Kennedy (31 possessions, six clearances and one goal) and the classy Isaac Heeney (27 possessions, six clearances and one goal) dominating from the first bounce.

Brisbane 62 – Essendon 84

Gabba

In what was a scrappy encounter all day, Essendon managed to edge out a gallant Brisbane to record their 5th win of the season.  Without an obvious best on ground, we have Zach Merrett’s  29 disposals edging out Harris Andrew’s 24 touches, 12 marks, despite most pundits awarding the three to the Lions  Vice Captain.

Fremantle 71 – Adelaide 68

Optus Stadium

Brennan Cox was rightly awarded the Round 12 Rising Star nomination and will go close to landing his first 3 vote game.  A career best four goal haul and 19 possessions has us allocating the forward 2.5 votes and edging out fellow promising young Dockers, Adam Cerra and Conor Blakely.

Melbourne 91 – Collingwood 133

MCG

The Dees were outclassed and out muscled by a rampaging Collingwood in front of an 83000 strong crowd.  Jordan De Goey’s 12 I50’s and 30 possessions and a career game from big man Masox Cox kicking 6 and winning the Neale Daniher Trophy for best afield should be the front runners to poll the three votes.

Sydney 91 – Carlton 61

SCG

Carlton were competitive and took it to the sluggish Swans before five unanswered goals in the 3rd term put any chance of an unlikely victory to bed. Isaac Heeney’s 22 possession and 2.3 in front of goal won the Goodes O’Loughlin Trophy for best on ground. By no means is it a lock for the three, with Callum Sinclair also finding the ball 22 times, 26 hitouts, 12 contested possessions and two goals in a performance highlighted by John Longmire post game as one of his best.

Western Bulldogs 51 – Melbourne 100

Etihad Stadium

The Premiership hangover continues. The Bulldogs provided little resistance after Q1 as Melbourne notched up their sixth-straight win with some of their most recognised faces playing starring roles. Tom McDonald was outstanding with four goals from 24 disposals and should be favourite to collect the three votes.

Hawthorn 64 – Port Adelaide 61

University of Tasmania Stadium

Managed right, Shaun Burgoyne could go until he’s 40. The classy half-forward’s 26 disposals was the standout in an arm wrestle all afternoon. Tom Mitchell will again be in the votes also with the ball magnet collecting a game high 28 touches and two goals.

Gold Coast 36 – Geelong 121

Metricon Stadium

No doubt a bittersweet night for Gary Ablett. The ex Sun was best-afield against his old side who, after kicking two goals in the first seven minutes of the game, only manged two thereafter in what was a stinker for their first home game at Metricon.

Essendon 43 – Richmond 114

MCG

Shane Edwards was the clear best-afield and rightly awarded the Yiooken Award  with a game-high 30 possessions and two goals. Not to be outdone though, Josh Caddy, in an age where so many players struggle in front of goal,  kicked another four-straight making his season tally 27.6 and putting him right in the conversation for more votes.  

West Coast 101 – St Kilda 88

Optus Oval

West Coast chalked up their 10th consecutive win against a dogged St Kilda and in doing so, recorded their best winning streak since 1996. Josh Kennedy and Tim Membrey participated in an old fashioned shoot out kicking 12.1 between them making it easy to include both in the voting.  In what was an even spread of contributors for the Eagles, we have the forwards 6.1 slightly edging out the likes of Andrew Gaff’s 29 disposals. 

North Melbourne 141 – Brisbane 87

Etihad Stadium

It’s full steam ahead for the Kangaroos’ charge towards September. A five goal to none first quarter set the scene for a comfortable win with Shaun Higgins game high 38 disposals and one goal the standout.

Collingwood 138 – Fremantle 77

MCG

Tom Phillips (36 disposals and three goals) and Steele Sidebottom (37 disposals) were best on ground in the 61 point victory. However all is overshadowed by the 1 week suspension handed down to Brownlow medal favourite Nat Fyfe.

Adelaide 81 – GWS 97

Adelaide Oval

The best match was saved to last with GWS breathing new life into its season landing a huge 16 point victory away from home. The usual suspects of the ‘orange tsunami’ played a pivotal role in the victory while Bryce Gibbs shone brightest for the Crows amassing 9 clearances amongst his 36 possessions.

Collingwood 90 – Western Bulldogs 55

Difficult not to allocate all the three votes to Adam Treloar (40 possessions, six inside 50s and two goals) who’s running game and clearances were vital in the Pies’ comeback win. Tom Phillips provides the threat though, who was awarded the Bob Rose-Charlie Sutton medal for best on ground on the night.

Richmond 105 – St Kilda 77

MCG

Jake Carlisle’s wayward forearm was a blessing in disguise for forward Josh Caddy. In what was an arm wrestle all day, Jack Riewoldt’s concussion gave Caddy open air in the forward 50 and he delivered in spades, kicking 6 goals in a best on ground performance. Trent Cothin was again impressive through the midfield, while St Kilda small forward, Jade Gresham ended up with six goals of his own.

Brisbane 49 – Sydney 67

GABBA 

Mostly untroubled all day, the Swans continued a winning streak against the Lions that dates back to 2009 with an 18 point victory without any notable standout performances. Perennial wet tracker Josh Kennedy was a bull with 34 possessions whilst big games from Dayne Beams and cement-head Mitch Robinson kept the lions in touch for most of the day.

Geelong 73 – Carlton 45

In what was a very forgettable match and one that will cast doubt over Geelong’s top four credentials, Patrick Dangerfield (29 possessions and a goal) and Tom Stewart (26 possessions including 11 intercepted) shone brightest. Patrick Cripps’ 22 contested possessions and 8 clearances makes it hard for the umpires not to consider in the votes either. While Kade Simpson also battled hard all day off half back.

GWS 60 – Essendon 95

Spotless Stadium

If it wasn’t for Mark Neeld would Essendon be 10 and zip? Essendon supporters are reemerging from their slumber after notching their second win a row thanks to impressive displays from midfielders Dyson Heppell (28 possessions), David Zaharakis (33 disposals and a goal) and the competitions number one tackler, Devon Smith (21 disposals, 13 tackles and a goal).

Hawthorn 60 – West Coast 75

MCG

It was no MCG, but a win in Melbourne will silence a few West Coast critics nonetheless. Stocks are rising down at the Eagles and Andrew Gaff is one of the reasons why. 35 possessions, 12 marks and a goal has us comfortably allocating the three. In what was another even contribution for the Eagles, Elliot Yeo and Nic Naitanui may feature in the minor votes. While, Jaeger O’Meara and Isaac Smith were the best for the Hawk.s

Melbourne 146 – Adelaide 55

Marrara Oval

Melbourne obliterated the Crows up in Alice Springs and in doing so, made it the hardest game for us to allocate votes with any confidence. Relevant media outlets/AFL pundits are no help either with votes spread across half a dozen players. We’re applying the Shane Woewodin/Akermanis bleached hair theory to the helmet though and allocating 2.5 to Angus Brayshaw’s 29 disposal/three goal game. As good a reason as any.

Fremantle 58 – North Melbourne 86

Optus Stadium

Another massive game from Nat Fyfe sees him reclaim the top spot on the leaderboard. Arguably the first player to beat the Ben Jacobs tag this season,  however a loss combined with another huge game from Michael Walters is enough for us to steer clear of giving the Freo captain the full three votes.

Adelaide 63 – Western Bulldogs 26

Adelaide Oval

Hawthorn 71 – Sydney 79

Fremantle 89 – St Kilda 59

Optus Stadium

With another strong performance, Nat Fyfe moves into outright favoritism for the Brownlow and rightly so. His 36 possessions of which 25 were contested played a pivotal role in seeing off a gallant but once again, inaccurate St Kilda team.

North Melbourne 72 – Richmond 82

Etihad Stadium

In what was a tight contest all day and Richmond absorbed the kitchen sink thrown at them by North until wrestling back the lead in the dying minutes. In doing so, they remain atop  the ladder. There’s no guarantees of a Tigers player collecting three votes though with Kangaroos midfielder Ben Cunnington amassing a stat line that read 38 total possessions, 32 contested and 14 clearances. However, Trent Cotchin’s classy display though the midfield should go close to stealing the maximum votes.

Collingwood 45 – Geelong 66

MCG

Geelong 93 – GWS 32

The Cats don’t lose two games in a row at home too often and Friday was no exception. An injury depleted GWS hardly gave a yelp as the recruit of the year Tim Kelly (30 possessions, 14 contested) and a rejuvenated Tom Hawkins lead Geelong to a comfortable win.

Western Bulldogs 81 – Gold Coast 72

MARS Stadium

Another 40 possession game from Jack Macrae and arguably his best game yet has us allocating another three to the prolific ball winner. Lachie Hunter was again a solid support act collecting a valuable 34 possessions, while Toby Mclean’s improvement this season was highlighted in what was an arm wrestle all day in Ballarat.

Essendon 67 – Hawthorn 90

MCG

It’s a love/hate relationship between Hawks supporters and James Sicily and this weeks it’s all love. The much-maligned defender amassed a monster stat line of 29 possessions, 14 marks and a goal which should see him a lock for the three votes. Tom Mitchell will be in contention for the minor votes, though he will have to compete with a number of teammates and Essendon ruckman, Tom Bellchambers.

West Coast 102 – Port Adelaide 60

Optus Stadium

it’s time to start paying a little more respect to the Eagles. In what was their sixth win in a row, West Coast were plus 42 in contested possessions with the likes of Jack Darling (14 contested) and Jack Redden (11 contested) leading the way in a comfortable 42 point win. Andrew Gaff was again impressive, providing a great deal of outside run. While, Elliot Yeo was consistent in the midfield all day.

Sydney 66 – North Melbourne 68

SCG

Speaking of respect, the Kangaroos demand plenty after their nail biting win over Sydney at the SCG. Shaun Higgins and Mason Wood showed their class in the contest while Josh Kennedy proved that the games best tagger was beatable, amassing 31 possessions, of which 18 were contested. The trio should all feature among the votes here.

Adelaide 125 – Carlton 70

Adelaide Oval

The Crows jumped the win-less Blues early and despite a small patch of resistance in the second Quarter, cruised to a 55 point victory. The high flying Mitch McGovern will go close to the three votes with an impressive  night booting five goal. The minor votes will be split between the Adelaide midfield in what was an even contribution.

Richmond 110 – Fremantle 33

MCG

Another Richmond win and another one we’re finding difficult to allocate votes. Dusty didn’t dominate and Richmond’s ‘team first’ attitude saw them win comfortably without a real standout. Nat Fyfe was huge again with 33 possessions but we’re reluctant to allocate him the full three when they went down by a whopping  77 points.

St. Kilda 67 – Melbourne 106

Etihad Stadium

In a game that didn’t reach any great heights, Melbourne looked a class above as they cruised to a 39 point win over the inaccurate Saints. Jesse Hogan’s 25 possession three goal game has us leaning towards the young forward for the three votes however a Max Gawn masterclass and impressive displays from Oliver and Brayshaw respectively suggest several Dees have genuine claims for the three also.

Brisbane 114 –  Collingwood 121

Optus Stadium

In a week where we sat through discussions on the state of the game, Brisbane vs Collingwood produced a game that suggested there’s no need to worry. A combined 37 goals in what was the game of the round saw Dayne Zorko and Jordan De Goey kick nine goals between them in standout performances. Adam Treloar and Tom Phillips will fight it out for the minor votes as both played key roles in the midfield.

Western Bulldogs 80 – Carlton 59

Etihad Stadium

Patrick Cripps output continues to be immense in a losing side. However, due to a sixth loss and the worst start to a season for Carlton in 121 years, we’re allocating the majority of votes to Marcus Bontempelli who played his best game of the year collecting 30 classy possessions. Jackson Macrae continued his stellar year also finding the footy 32 times. It will definitely be interesting to see how the umpires judge this game come Brownlow Night.

Geelong 69 – Sydney 86

GMHBA Stadium

No Buddy, no Hannebery, no worries. A resurgent Josh Kennedy was back to his best with 13 of his 33 disposals and six of his 13 clearances coming in the last term to chase down a lacklustre Geelong outfit at home. Callum Sinclair played the game of his life was a handy support act in the impressive victory. While Joel Selwood and Tim Kelly were the pick of a Geelong side that will be looking for answers.

North Melbourne 69 – Port Adelaide 102

Etihad Stadium

Sam Gray’s four goals and 19 possessions up forward was the catalyst in Port Adelaide win. The Power shook their Etihad hoodoo and secured a 33 point victory against the in form Kangaroos. Ben Jacobs split his time between Robbie Gray and Ollie Wines, which let Port Adelaide’s second tier midfielders off the hook with Jared Polec and Brad Ebert stepping up when it was counted. Justin Westhoff was also impressive in the win and should feature in the minor votes.

GWS 77 – Brisbane 43

Spotless Stadium

GWS continue to do just enough without setting the world alight. Brett Deledio wound back the clock and looked like the Brett Deledio of old in a classy display. While Matt De Boer collected a career high 35 possessions in the 34 point victory. Lachie Whitfield outside run and rebound off half back and Stephen Coniglio’s strong work inside should fight it out for the minor vote.

Hawthorn 89 – St Kilda 54

UTAS

Alan Richardson left Saints fans scratching their heads allowing superstar Tom Mitchell collect possessions at will in the Hawks 35 point win. With the shackles of past weeks released, the onballer enjoyed his new found freedom linking up with Isaac Smith to get the job done down in Tasmania. However, we have judged Smith’s four goal, 24 disposal game more worthy of the three votes.

Adelaide 110 – Gold Coast 62

Adelaide Oval

Toughest game of the round to allocate votes thus far. In what was a comfortable 48 point win, contributions were evenly spread across the winning side. Hard not to find room for Tom Lynch and Richie Douglas who both kicked 3 goals to go with 25 and 21 possessions respectively. David Swallow was the best for the the losing side.

Essendon 72 – Melbourne 108

Etihad Stadium

Two of the more inconsistent sides of the competition, both backing up from small breaks put on a very forgettable match under the roof at Etihad stadium. Melbourne however, came up trumps and the six goal margin in the didn’t quite do either team justice. Max Gawn and Nathan Jones should combine for the lions share of voting with dominant second halves as they were the catalyst for the onslaught.

Collingwood 70 – Richmond 113

Melbourne Cricket Ground

The 43 point margin doesn’t give justice to what was an arm wrestle for the majority of the game. Trent Cotchin and Toby Nankervis should figure in the voting while Dustin Martin and Adam Treloar continued their hot run both kicking goals in and collecting 42 and 29 possessions respectively.

Fremantle 81 –  West Coast 89

Optus Stadium

Optus Stadium played host to its first Derby in what was a long overdue classic. For the first time, the much publicised Ross Glendinning Medal was shared between two players with Shannon Hurn’s half back dominace and Lachie Neale’s 35 possessions out shining others in the voters eyes. For those in the team Fyfe outright camp, 27 possessions of which 13 were contested puts him in the mix.

Sydney 75 – Adelaide 85

Sydney Cricket Ground

The pattern continues for the Crows as they were eavily criticised midweek and came out like a team possessed to clinch an unlikely away victory. Tex Walker was instrumental kicking four goals while the Crows second tier midfielders lead by ex-pie Paul Seedsman and Rory Atkins made Sydney’s more fancied on-ballers look second rate. Rory Laird was everywhere and is every chance of polling again.

St Kilda 73 – GWS 73

Etihad Stadium

Both teams will come away a little disappointed with the season’s first draw. GWS’s inaccuracy gave St Kilda a sniff and with that sniff, St Kilda dropped their opportunity in the dying seconds of the game.  A difficult one to allocate votes so we’ve gone with a slight lean towards the goal kicking midfielders.

Carlton 69 – West Coast 79

Melbourne Cricket Ground

It’s a shame Patrick Cripps plays in losing sides each week. He was a contested bull again amassing 19 possessions in a 34 disposal game. However, the three votes is no guarantee against the likes of Andrew Gaff and Elliot Yeo who were very solid in what was a ten point victory to the Eagles.

Port Adelaide 50 –  Geelong 84

Adelaide Oval

A late Tom Hawkins omission pre game did nothing to affect an impressive performance from the Cats at Adelaide Oval. Joel Selwood and Patrick Dangerfield again showed their worth finding the ball at will, while late inclusion George Horlin Smith has made it next to impossible for the selection committee to drop him next week with a 26 possession, two goal performance in what was a career game for the 25 year old. Robbie Gray was once again Port Adelaide’s only shining light and will go close to polling a couple in what was a dismal night for the Power.

Fremantle 108 – Western Bulldogs 54

Optus Stadium

Nat Fyfe and Michael Walters will be close to leading the Brownlow 5 rounds in.  We have Nat Fyfe’s 43 possessions and one goal just ahead of Walters five goal performance, though both were the clear stand out performers. Lachie Neale and Nathan Wilson were both solid in support roles and will be expected to fight it out for the minor placings.

North Melbourne 98 –  Hawthorn 70

Etihad Stadium

The Kangaroos continue to prove the doubters wrong with another consistent team performance. Their win on the weekend now see’s them move into the top four, a position that next to no one would have predicted pre-season. Ben Cunnington was vital as rotations began to diminish for most of the second half, while Luke Breust’s accuracy gave the Hawks the slimmest of chances late in the game.

Brisbane 71 – Gold Coast 76

Gabba

The Q-Clash went agonisingly close to producing the second draw of the round with only an inaccurate kick on the siren from the number one draft pick, Cameron Rayner the difference in a late quarter fightback from the Lions. In a tight tussle, it was both teams younger brigades who shone brightest, providing a sneak peek into both clubs depth of young talent. Brayden Fiorini and Touk Miller were the pick of the bunch for the Suns and should both feature among the votes. While, Alex Witherden was solid of half back for the Lions.

Melbourne 56 – Richmond 102

Melbourne Cricket Ground

A 46 point final margin doesn’t give justice to what was a tight contest for the majority of the game. It will be interesting to see how the votes are allocated come September given Dusty’s 26 possession game wasn’t as dominant as others. Kane Lambert was fantastic in the win, providing run through the midfield and laying a number of key tackles. While, Clayton Oliver and Jesse Hogan were again the best for the Demons.

Collingwood 101 –  Essendon 52

GMHBA Stadium

Adam Treloar took away the Anzac Day Medal and it’s hard not to see him land the three votes from the umpires. His gut running provided Collingwood with damaging run through the middle, especially in the second half where he kicked two goals to ice the game. Scott Pendlebury was also instrumental in the midfield and had an almost calming presence on the game while Steele Sidebottom was up to his old tricks. Both should fight it out for the minor votes.

Adelaide 58 – Collingwood 100

Adelaide Oval

Another away game as underdogs and another strong showing from the Pies. Steele Sidebottom continued his rich vein form racking up a lazy 43 possessions, all while applying the clamps on Rory Sloane’s influence. We have him edging out Brodie Grundy who looked more like a midfielder amassed a triple double like stat line with 40 hitouts, 33 posssesion and a goal. Adam Treloar rounds out our allocation collecting 36 possessions in a game where he saw more midfield time with the return of De Goey up forward.

GWS 82 – Fremantle 51

UNSW Oval

GWS did enough to get the win quite comfortably in Canberra with  Stephen Coniglio polling again, in what should be his fourth consecutive game. Callan Ward was a bull with 34 possessions whilst Nick Haynes overshadowed his more fancied teammates with an impressive 31 possession, 15 mark game.

Richmond 110 – Brisbane 17

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Another Richmond win, Dusty three vote game looms. His six goals in a match where no one else really stood out should be enough to see him climb the leaderboard. Trent Cotchin and Reece Conca the most likely minor place getters.

Western Bulldogs 79 –  Sydney 86

Etihad Stadium

The Western Bulldogs have definitely turned a corner and were unlucky to go down in a last quarter arm wrestle. Jackson Macrae once again found the ball at will and despite the loss, should be in contention for the three against Luke Parker and his silky 21 possession, three goal game.

North Melbourne 116 – Carlton 30

Blundstone Arena

Any supporter who watched this game from start to finish is one die hard AFL fan. Shaun Higgins’ 35 possessions was a class above the rest and has us allocating him the full three votes ahead of Ben Brown who outscored the Carlton Football Club by himself.

West Coast 139 –  Gold Coast 59

Optus Stadium

Can’t see too many buying this one on DVD but regardless of spectacle, West Coast cruised to an 80 point drubbing. An even spread of contributors has us doing the same with vote allocation. Choose your poison.

Essendon 106 – Port Adelaide 84

Etihad Stadium

In hindsight this result was predictable. Heavily criticised during the week, Essendon came out with renewed vigour and aside from a very slight momentum swing in the 2nd half, did it comfortably. Zach Merrett rediscovered his form of last year and was able to use his run and carry from stoppages in a damaging performance. Heppell, while not as efficient as we’re used too, did enough to poll and not to be outdone, Michael Hurley relished Cale Hooker’s return down back.

Hawthorn 115 –  Melbourne 48

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Hawthorn proved they’re far from a one man band. Tom Mitchell was tagged and played second fiddle to the ever-improving Jaeger O’Meara and Liam shiels. Luke Breust was also a dead eye in front of goals against an all too familiar Melbourne performance.

Geelong 103 –  St Kilda 56

GMHBA Stadium

Put a line through any St. Kilda players getting near a vote. Geelong controlled the game from start to finish. Brendan Parfitt and Daniel Menzel proved to the doubters that Geelong may have some depth in their list away from their big three in the midfield.

Carlton 76 – Collingwood 100

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Nathan Buckley was heading for the carpark ten minutes in, but, a ten goal run lead by classy midfielder Steele Sidebottom and the ever reliable Brody Grundy saw the Pies get off the canvas and land their first four points of the season. It will be hard not to give Sidebottom the full the votes with 35 possessions and three goals. Jack crisp also provided a lot of run off the half back line, collecting an impressive 32 possessions.

Port Adelaide 97 –  Brisbane 92

Adelaide Oval

Gallant in defeat, Brisbane’s young list were only metres away from snatching an unlikely victory against one of the competitions premiership favourites. A loss is the only reason we’re not allocating the full three to Stefan Martin in what was a masterclass against the Ryder-less Port side. The Lions ruckman collected a statline that most big men could only dream of. Jared Polec and Sam Gray both played their best games for the season and Ollie Wines did enough to be considered for a vote.

Melbourne 123 – North Melbourne 86

Melbourne Cricket Ground

This one took a while to get going, but once Melbourne kicked into gear, North had little answers. Jesse Hogan continued his rich vein form up the ground, finding the ball at will. Whilst, big Maxy Gawn looks to have put last years injury concerns behind him with another dominant display in the ruck amassing 50 hitouts and his 18 disposals

Gold Coast 68 –  Fremantle 96

Optus Stadium

Nathan Fyfe and the Fremantle Dockers are now the nations biggest Commonwealth Games fans after their workman-like 28 point away (home) victory on Saturday night. Gold Coast’s ‘necessary evil’ selling Saturday’s home game came back to bite them as they watched a Nathan Fyfe lead midfield run over the top of them in the second half. 24 contested possessions, 14 clearances and a goal has us allocating the full thee votes to the Freo captain. Michael Walters was again handy as a support act collecting 23 possessions to go along with two goals, whilst Lachie Neale and Jarryd Lyons were prolific all day.

Sydney 103 – GWS 87

Sydney Cricket Ground

Easily the toughest match so far to allocate votes. Perennial vote-getters Josh Kennedy and Buddy Franklin did enough to be considered for a vote whilst a few of Sydney’s emerging young stars in Callum Mills and Isaac Heeney stood out in an impressive 16 point victory.

St. Kilda 55 –  Adelaide 104

Etihad Stadium

Our pre-season prediction went exactly to script on Saturday night with a Rory Sloane tag allowing Bryce Gibbs to roam free and collect the ball at will. 26 possessions and a goal has us allocating him 2.5 votes, slightly edging out another A grade performance from All Australian back pocket Rory Laird. Sam Jacobs powerful display against second gamer, Rowan Marshall and Paul Seedsman’s two goal, 26 possession game is also worthy of votes.

Richmond  102 – Hawthorn 89

Melbourne Cricket Ground

It was the Tom Mitchell show again at the MCG but how do you allocate votes to a player with 42 possession and a goal in a losing team? It’s a tough one but we have given Mitchell the two here. We saw Trent Cotchin’s 31 possessions as more effective and have allocated him 2.5 votes over Tom Mitchell’s two with Alex Rance jostling it out for the final vote with fellow defender, Bachar Houli.

Western Bulldogs 104 –  Essendon 83

Etihad Stadium

Put a line through Essendon for any votes. They were woeful. A spirited Bulldogs lineup came to play Sunday afternoon, with both Lachie Hunter and Jack Macrae again standing out as they combined for 65 possessions. The lead the young Bulldogs team to a relatively easy win. Luke Dahlhaus returned to form amassing 31 possessions while Toby Mclean kicked some important goals when needed and cant forgotten in the vote allocation.

West Coast 95 –  Geelong 80

Optus Stadium

West Coast did what they should, grinding down a depleted Geelong outfit to record their first win at Optus Stadium. Dom Sheed was a standout kicking two vital goals to go with 30 quality possessions, while Andrew Gaff had a day out without much attention collecting 29 touches and kicking a goal. Luke Shuey also impressed and Dangerfield is difficult to disregard.

Adelaide 118 – Richmond 82

Adelaide Oval

Dustin Martin continued his strong start to the season and was arguably best on ground in the losing side. The 2017 Brownlow medalist finished with five goals and 25 disposals. While, Rory Laird was the best for the Crows, picking up a whopping 42 disposals off half back. Jenkins’ five goals on All Australian Alex Rance, Sloane’s 25 possessions and two goals, and a Bryce Gibbs 20 contested possession game will battle it out for the one vote.

North Melbourne 95 –  St. Kilda 43

Etihad Stadium

The North Melbourne forwards proved the difference in this game as Ben Brown and Jarrad Waite took control in the second half. Brown ended the game with six goals while Waite was influential playing higher up the ground and finished with a game high 13 marks. Todd Goldstein was able to dominate late with a handy 38 hit out and 16 possession game which looked a lot closer to the Goldy of 2015-16.

A hard one to allocate points to any St Kilda players given the woeful showing but Jack Steven did enough to warrant a vote with his blistering start and finishing with 26 possessions and a goal.

Carlton 67 – Gold Coast 101

Etihad Stadium

The Gold Coast juggernaut rolls on and so does the value of Tom Lynch’s next contract. Eight goals in a dominant display should land the key forward the three votes. Jarryd lyons finished with 14 clearances, 36 possessions and a goal which should easily land him the two. It will be a raffle between David Swallow’s contested footy and Ed Curnow’s 38 possessions for the remaining vote.

Collingwood  79 –  GWS 95

Melbourne Cricket Ground

In what was a tight encounter, a big last quarter by both Stephen Coniglio and Lachie Whitfield kicking crucial goals when the game was on the line has us allocating two votes respectively to each midfielder.  If Collingwood hung on though, the allocation might have been a different story with Brody Grundy dominating in the ruck with 45 hitouts, two goals and 14 contested possessions. We found a way to sneak Scott Pendlebury in, who responded to his midweek criticism from Mike Sheahan with a typically classy display collecting 30 possessions. Lastly, Tom Phillips was very solid with a 32 possession and one goal game.

Brisbane 74 – Melbourne 100

The Gabba

The Demons made it harder than it should have been but did enough to take out all the allocated votes. Jesse Hogan looks to have put the year from hell behind him with another solid showing. He finished with five goals and edged out some impressive performances from both Clayton Oliver and Nathan Jones who contributed with both goals and plenty of contested footy.

Fremantle 106 –  Essendon 90

Optus Stadium

It took a week longer than anticipated but we finally got to see Nat Fyfe return to his 2015 Brownlow medal form.  29 possessions and a goal, including a few high flying marks should be enough to see him land his first three votes of the season.  Michael Walters 26 disposal, two goal game, Mundy’s class and Fremantle’s new found dashing halfback, Connor Blakely should jostle it out for the minor placings.

Western Bulldogs 70 – West Coast 121

Etihad Stadium

The hardest game to allocate votes thus far and a gold star for anyone who can land the three, two, one in order. West Coast did it comfortably in what was an even spread of contributors over a dismal Bulldogs outfit, with Lachie Hunter and Jack Macrae the only shining lights. However, probably not enough for the three votes. Individual stat lines say yes but losing margin says no.

We watched this game intently and after the siren were scratching our heads for the West Coast stand outs. Hurn and Gaff found enough outside ball to be considered and the likes of Darling, Lycett and the exciting Liam Ryan hitting the scoreboard are others who played strongly.

Sydney 71 –  Port Adelaide 94

Sydney Cricket Ground

Tight contest between two sides that’ll go deep into September. From quarter time, Ollie Wines was a bull racking up 35 possessions including a goal that’ll go close to landing him the three votes come September. Robbie Gray showed his class with 26 possessions and a goal whilst the versatility of big Charlie Dixon and Westhoff played vital roles in the 23 point victory. For Sydney, perennial vote getter, Josh Kennedy was strong in the contest collecting 33 possessions of which 20 were contested.

Geelong 117 –  Hawthorn 118

Melbourne Cricket Ground

The cream rose to the top in what will be hard to beat for the best regular season game this year. Tom Mitchell was penciled in for the three at three quarter time until Geelong’s star studded midfield went to another level in what was an epic last quarter. 40 possessions (20 contested), 13 clearances and two goals in an epic win should see him land the three votes though. While Dangerfield, Ablett and Joel Selwood will fight it out for the minor placings.

Richmond  121 – Carlton 95

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Dustin Martin showed no signs of complacency after the year he had last season and was easily the best player for the Tigers, bobbing up at important times throughout the game. Kade Simpson was outstanding with 35 disposals off half back for Carlton and Charlie Curnow ended with five majors so he must be considered.

However, Patrick Cripps was our clear best on ground in the season opener as the young blue amassed 36 disposals, of which 25 of them were contested. Carlton did go on to lose the game which may work against him, but we have Cripps as the clear stand-out in this one. A hard game to allocate points here as there were a number of standout performers.

Essendon 99 –  Adelaide 87

Etihad Stadium

As is the nature of games played at Etihad Stadium there were a heap of high possession getters. None more so than Matt Crouch who ended the game with a whopping 41 disposals. Teammate, Bryce Gibbs also had 35 disposals of his own and may well have been in line for best on ground honours if the Crows were to go on and win this one.

Ultimately though, we have allocated Essendon’s Dyson Heppell near max votes for his 35 disposal game. The Bombers captain was instrumental in the early parts of the game and lead the Essendon resurgence in the final quarter. Heppell’s impressive game also included nine inside 50’s and seven score involvements. Meanwhile, fellow Bombers, Brendon Goddard and David Zaharakis will be in the mix for minor votes following strong supporting roles in the come from behind win.

St. Kilda 107 –  Brisbane 82

Etihad Stadium

Another cracking game at Etihad to kick of the round one of the season. Jack Billings and Blake Acres should both feature in the votes following outstanding games. Billings started like a house on fire kicking two majors in the first term before going on to set up an number of teammates on his way to a game high 14 score involvements. While Acres ended the game with 30 disposals at 83% efficiency and a goal of his own.

However, we see Jack Steven as the clear best on game in this clash and we have awarded him maximum votes for that reason. Steven was at his damaging best here, amassing 34 disposals and kicking two goals of his own to accompany his usual line breaking ability, that is always something that catches the attention of those awarding votes.

Port Adelaide 110 –  Fremantle 60

Adelaide Oval

It was all one way traffic in this clash as the Power had their way with the Dockers. Justin Westhoff was a clear standout around the ground as he racked up 25 disposals, nine marks and laid nine tackles, as well as pinch hitting in the ruck when called upon. While a number of players stood up for the Power, we find it hard to look past him here are awarding him near maximum votes for his dominant display around the ground.

Riley Bonner was impressive, especially early, racking up 31 disposals off half back. However, he did fade as the game went on. Jack Watts should also feature in the minor votes as he was clearly the pick of the Power forwards, while Brad Ebert was the pick of the Port Adelaide midfielders and battled well all day.

Gold Coast 55 –  North Melbourne 39

Cazaly’s Stadium

The conditions we horrible for big men but Jarrod Witts won the ruck duel and may be in line for a minor vote considering the amount of stoppages in the game. Jack Bowes had a strong performance running off the wing and Aarong Young was the most lively forward in the game racking up 26 disposals and laying nine tackles in what was a trying game for most. Both men also found the scoreboard which should be looked kindly upon given the low scoring nature of the game.

However, we see it very hard to look past David Swallow for best on ground honours in this clash as the hard nose midfielder let the charge from the get go for the Suns. Swallow picked up 32 disposals, 14 of which were contested and was pivotal in a number of key passages leading to Suns scoring chances.

Hawthorn 101 –  Collingwood 67

Melbourne Cricket Ground

There should be no doubt in anyone’s mind that Tom Mitchell will poll maximum votes here. The Hawthorn midfielder racked up the most recorded disposals in an AFL game (54). James Sicily was next best for the Hawks, playing an important role down back which saw him amass game highs in intercept possessions and rebound 50’s. While Isaac Smith also provided consistent run through the midfield.

For Collingwood, the usual brigade of Pendlebury, Treloar and Sidebottom were the best of an underwhelming Magpies side. The trio have had no problem receiving votes in years gone past, so they may all be a chance to poll a minor vote if the umpires look past the scoreboard here.

GWS 133 –  Western Bulldogs 51

UNSW Canberra Stadium

Easily the hardest game of the round to award votes to, as a handful of Giants could feature following a emphatic victory over the Bulldogs. Jeremy Cameron ended the game with six goals and for that reason will likely feature somewhere here. Stephen Coniglio lead the inside midfield group and finished the game with 32 disposals and two goals, while Lachie Whitfield provided a great deal of outside run and was the leading disposal winner on the ground, finishing with 34 touches of his own.

However, we are looking at Josh Kelly and Toby Greene as the larger vote winners in the one. Kelly’s class was apparent throughout, picking up 29 disposals and two goals, whilst also providing key run through the midfield. While, Toby Greene was our pick for best on ground honours following an outstanding 25 disposal, four goal game that included a game high 12 score involvements.

Melbourne 94 –  Geelong 97

Melbourne Cricket Ground

For Melbourne, Max Gawn dominated in the ruck and may well have finished best afield if he converted a golden opportunity to win the game in the dying moments of the game, while Clayton Oliver was again the pick of the Demons’ midfielders.

Gary Ablett and Joel Selwood ran the show for the Cats as the two veterans willed a banged up Geelong side to victory. Ablett showed no signs of age as he picked up 39 disposals and finished with one major in his return to Geelong. While his captain, Selwood, also finished with 39 disposals of his own. However, we will give Ablett the edge here due to the damaging nature of his possessions and his re-paw with the umpires over the years.

Sydney 115 –  West Coast 86

Optus Stadium

Lance Franklin was simply unstoppable in this game and ended the game with a round best eight goals. The Eagles simply had no answer for the Swans’ forward as he had his way from start to finish. Buddy also picked up nine marks and also laid a number of key tackles on the way to what must be three Brownlow votes. Luke Parker was also very impressive in the midfield, picking up 32 disposals and contributing a freakish goal of his own.

The aforementioned pair were a clear standout in this game, however, the minor votes will likely be fought out between Isaac Heeney, who was also another key contributor for the Swans and Luke Shuey who was the best for the Eagles.