As Hawthorn eyes a spot in this year’s preliminary final, MARK ROBINSON examines what it takes to become a juggernaut and whether the Hawks have the traits to emulate Sydney and Geelong’s sustained success.
When asked in the pre-season who could challenge for the Hawks’ B&F, coach Sam Mitchell suggested some young guns – but also a 26-year-old swingman who’s now looking every bit a world-beater.
It’s difficult keeping up with Hok Ball because the moments seem to get bigger, louder and more outrageous, writes MARK ROBINSON. But behind the noise is a serious group of kids.
It was Port Adelaide’s biggest game of the year, and they choked, writes Mark Robinson. And with either the Bulldogs or Hawks waiting, it’s going to be a long week for Ken Hinkley.
It’s the time of year some coaches start making peace with their football mortality. Adam Simpson is already doing so, writes MARK ROBINSON, but who else is feeling the heat?
Demon Jacob Van Rooyen is playing like a young David ‘Ox’ Schwarz. The man himself doesn’t like the comparison but does like what he sees writes MARK ROBINSON.
Dustin Martin and Tom Hawkins have enjoyed unrivalled careers – for different reasons. Now, both are facing similar questions. MARK ROBINSON looks at what’s true, what isn’t and what could be next.
John Longmire would be the front runner if coach of the year was awarded today. Justin Longmuir and Chris Scott are also contenders, but MARK ROBINSON writes that none of them have come from the clouds like Sam Mitchell.
Where exactly are the Saints at? It’s something many have pondered this year. MARK ROBINSON goes straight to the top to find out, asking the hard questions of St Kilda president Andrew Bassat.
North Melbourne has a beauty in Luke Davies-Uniacke. He could well be the highest paid player if he leaves the Roos, but MARK ROBINSON writes that North needs to make sure he stays. See more likes and dislikes here.
There’s a bad vibe at Port – and that vibe might soon turn into a virus, writes Mark Robinson. And, at that point, the club’s search must go beyond who’s already there.
In the early days of his Collingwood career, Dane Swan came close to being given his marching orders. The newly-minted Hall of Fame inductee tells MARK ROBINSON how he turned it around while still being part of the ‘Rat Pack’.
Taylor Adams goaded Mitch Hinge into sacking him after celebrating a Joel Amartey goal. MARK ROBINSON thinks Adams shouldn’t have been rewarded for ‘being a punk’.
In nearly 30 years of covering footy, the umpiring has never been more in disarray, writes MARK ROBINSON. The AFL has a problem – and it cannot be ignored.
Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/afl/expert-opinion/page/4