AFL

‘That’s what we want in our group’: Scott praises Merrett after footage shown of emotional exchange

An undermanned Essendon were predictably smashed by the Bulldogs at Marvel. Just how much more can the young Bombers, and their superstar skipper, take?

1 hour ago
by Roy Ward, Danny Russell, Russell Bennett and Vince Rugari

Out-of-contract Essendon ruckman Sam Draper.

AFL Briefing

Why Lions lead race for Draper; Rap legend on ‘radar’ for AFL grand final; Zorko fined

by Justin Chadwick and Jon Pierik

Sam Docherty of the Blues is chaired from the field after his final game by Patrick Cripps of the Blues (left) and Kade Simpson.

Curnow declares he is staying at Blues; Docherty bows out as Hawks win comfortably

by Roy Ward and Peter Ryan

Opinion

From a Lygon era: Why I can’t cop a Silvagni at Collingwood

by Jake Niall

Hardwick, Beveridge swing the axe: AFL teams and expert tips for round 20

Insight & Analysis

Steven May’s suspension was justified, and won’t change footy as we know it

Steven May was unlucky in the sense he didn’t mean to concuss his opponent, Francis Evans. But don’t fall for the hysteria about this case changing the game.

From a Lygon era: Why I can’t cop a Silvagni at Collingwood

In terms of family name and connection to a club, the Silvagnis are comparable to the Kennedys at Hawthorn. Josh Kennedy, though, had good reason to go. Jack Silvagni has no need to leave the Blues for opportunity.

Jake Niall

Chief football writer, The Age

Harley Reid wants a multimillion-dollar mega deal. These are the pitfalls and positives

Reid has offered West Coast a chance to keep him on the longest contract in the AFL, but there are many factors players and clubs should consider when they weigh up such mega deals.

Jon Pierik

Sports journalist for The Age

Latest in AFL

AFL 2025

Curnow declares he is staying at Blues; Docherty bows out as Hawks win comfortably

Charlie Curnow has declared he will be at the Blues in 2026 while Sam Docherty bowed out with a goal but Hawthorn were too good for Carlton as round 20 began at the MCG.

by Roy Ward and Peter Ryan

Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge and club great Chris Grant in 2020.

AFL Briefing

AFL 2025

Beveridge laments Grant’s absence from Bulldogs gala; May appeals ban; Balta’s curfew ends

The Western Bulldogs coach talks about the absence of a club great from Monday night’s gala celebrations. Meanwhile, the Demons will appeal Steven May’s three-match suspension.