By Jon Pierik, Andrew Wu, Roy Ward and Nick Wright
With the bye rounds in full swing, it’s time to run the rule over how each club is faring at the midway point of their seasons.
Teams with the round 16 bye
Geelong (3rd, 10 wins, 5 losses)
Who’s hot: Where do you want to start? Bailey Smith has rocketed into Brownlow Medal contention in his first season with the Cats. The dynamic line-breaker is averaging a competition-high 32 disposals per game, sits atop the voting for the coaches’ association award after 15 rounds, and has also sparked plenty of headlines off the field. He has exemplified the change in mindset for the Cats, where speed and power are critical on the ball. Fellow running midfielder Max Holmes has also been superb, averaging more than 26 touches per game. Hard nut Tom Atkins has been typically robust, and is the unheralded heartbeat of the midfield, leading the league in tackles (141). Ruckman Rhys Stanley has worked his way into the season. Patrick Dangerfield has relished becoming a specialist forward with bursts in the midfield, while Jeremy Cameron (48 goals) is leading the Coleman Medal race. Ollie Dempsey’s unique role of starting on a wing and then pushing forward and kicking goals (22) has caused opponents plenty of headaches, and has the 22-year-old firmly in All-Australian calculations. Goalsneak Tyson Stengle is always dangerous (20 goals and 17 goal assists), while we have liked what Oisin Mullin has done as a tagger and defensive midfielder.
Fan Favourite: Bailey Smith is all smiles as he celebrates with Cats’ fans.Credit: Getty Images
Who’s not: The Cats would like two of their prime defensive planks back in selection contention. But Sam De Koning (shoulder) and Jake Kolodjashnij (back) will be out for some time. Premiership veteran Cam Guthrie (calf) is pushing for a return soon.
Verdict: The Cats are well positioned to push for a second flag in four seasons, but two defeats to Brisbane – the latter a 41-point humbling at GMHBA Stadium – have taken the gloss off an otherwise impressive first half of the season. There is much to like. They average the second most points per game (98.46) of any team, while their ferocity at the contest is reflected in that they sit second for tackles per game (65.5), and first for tackles inside 50 (14.7 per game). And, as we pointed out in these pages last Monday, the Cats have the easiest run home. They face Richmond twice in the final nine rounds, with an improving North Melbourne also to come. Of their remaining opponents, only the Giants could say they are a legitimate premiership threat. There is no reason why the Cats cannot finish top two.
Jon Pierik’s grade: A-
Essendon (13th, 6-8)
Who’s hot: Skipper Zach Merrett began the season in superb touch, but hasn’t been as effective when used in spells at half-back. Regardless, he is still averaging a team-high 27 disposals per game, and is firmly in line for a sixth Crichton Medal. His leadership has also been exemplary. Key forward Nate Caddy and small forward Isaac Kako have become important figures, each showing a penchant for something special. Archie Roberts, averaging almost 24 touches per game, is another youngster on the rise. Defender Zach Reid was superb across his opening nine games, before injury hit again. It’s been a bruising month for the Bombers, who have lost their past four games, but there had been impressive signs, particularly defensively. And a shoutout to Todd Goldstein, the veteran ruckman in his 19th season having to shoulder a heavy load after serious injuries to Sam Draper, an unrestricted free agent, and fellow out-of-contract big man Nick Bryan.
Leading the way: Zach Merrett has had another strong season.Credit: AFL Photos
Who’s not: Injuries [15 players are currently listed] have really hurt the Bombers, but have also provided opportunity – they have had 11 debutants this year. Highly paid defender Ben McKay has had a foot issue, but his form in a lockdown role wasn’t great. Harrison Jones (ankle) and Nik Cox (concussion) have been sidelined indefinitely. More is needed from marking tall Peter Wright, while Darcy Parish was working his way back into form after a long injury absence but was sent for scans on his calf on Saturday after a training session in which Nine News reported that Kyle Langford and Mason Redman also experienced setbacks. Veteran midfielder Dylan Shiel has not been seen at a senior level since the loss to the Western Bulldogs, and may finish his career largely in the VFL. Overall, the Bombers must find a way to elevate themselves from being 17th in the league for inside-50s, their ball movement still an issue. It’s also not a good sign that they are ranked second for kicking backwards in defence. The modern game is built on rebound and attack.
Verdict: We’ve enjoyed the decision to blood as many youngsters – dare we say, baby Bombers – as possible, provided the youngsters truly deserve their spot. The Dons are in rebuild mode, and have a list management focus on high-end talent and players who are not older than 28 when recruiting from other clubs. As club chief Craig Vozzo explained to this masthead in May, the Bombers’ specific needs are a “hamburger with the lot”. That they began 6-4 was a testament to good coaching, a renewed focus on defence, and a softish fixture, but no one really expected them to push for finals. That’s now become a reality. If they can pluck two or three wins from here, they will have done well.
Jon Pierik’s grade: C
Brisbane Lions (2nd, 10-4, draw)
Who’s hot: Until a fortnight ago, Logan Morris was yet to kick five goals in a game. He has now done so twice, and in doing so announced himself as the long-term successor to retired star Joe Daniher. The 20-year-old’s 30 goals already surpasses the 26 he kicked en route to a premiership in his maiden AFL campaign last year, while his pressure game has improved dramatically (30 tackles already, compared to 12 in 2024). Hugh McCluggage is on the cusp of a maiden All-Australian jumper – averaging 26.4 disposals, 5.3 tackles, 5.9 inside 50s, 5.5 clearances and 11.1 contested possessions a game. The vice captain’s exploits against Essendon – when he recorded a career-best 41 disposals to go with 13 inside 50s – were relentless, and highlighted just how underrated he has been among the game’s elite midfielders. His presence has helped highly touted draftee Levi Ashcroft find his feet at the top level quickly, and forge a reliable union with his Norm Smith Medal-winning brother, Will Ashcroft.
Who’s not: If the Lions are to defend their premiership, they will need to get more out of Charlie Cameron at the season’s business end. Cameron is a champion and knows what it takes to go deep into September, but his output has been relatively minimal so far in 2025. While he missed the start of the year, the 30-year-old has struggled to hit the scoreboard outside of a trio of three-goal hauls in wins over Hawthorn, Richmond and the Gold Coast. Aside from those clashes, Cameron has booted just five majors in his other 10 appearances. While Kai Lohmann had a breakout campaign last year, which included four grand final goals, has had a season plagued by shoulder and ankle injuries, as well as inconsistent form. But the 22-year-old, who kicked 36 goals last year, has steadily regained his confidence in recent weeks – all six of his majors so far coming in his past four games after registering just three behinds in his previous six matches.
Verdict: They have not been perfect, but the Lions will almost certainly break the pattern of reigning AFL premiers missing the finals altogether the following season. In the past four years, only Melbourne have backed up their premiership with another finals berth. Of the Lions’ four losses so far this season, they were left to rue being chased down by the Demons and Giants late – their own ineffective goal kicking costing them in the latter of those clashes, as was the case against Adelaide. The Giants also proved that if rivals can cut down the amount of stoppage play, the Lions can be exposed. But with ageless veterans Lachie Neale (25.7 disposals, 6.4 clearances, 4.3 inside 50s and 12.1 contested possessions per game) and Dayne Zorko (27 disposals, 7.1 rebound 50s and 3.1 inside 50s) steering the ship, it would take a colossal fade to lengthen their flag defence odds, with four of their remaining eight games against teams currently outside the top eight.
Nick Wright’s grade: A-
Greater Western Sydney (7th, 9-6)
Who’s hot: The Giants. They have won four of their past five games, including a roaring comeback against Gold Coast on Sunday despite missing stars Sam Taylor (broken toe) and Brent Daniels (adductor). Tom Green has had another All-Australian calibre season, averaging more than 30 disposals through the midfield, although his efficiency by foot has been an issue at times. Lachie Whitfield has been superb at half-back, averaging more than 28 touches per game, and has had to deal with more opposition attention. Lachie Ash (29.2 disposals per game) is having a career-year at half-back, while Finn Callaghan, who had been in the sights of St Kilda, is averaging almost 28 touches per game. Up forward, Jesse Hogan (40 goals) is firmly in the hunt for another Coleman Medal, Aaron Cadman is an emerging star, while Irishman Callum Brown keeps getting the job done. Skipper Toby Greene is a superstar but has had weeks when he has struggled to kick goals. This is a team that looks good when it transitions well off turnover.
Run home: Jake Stringer will hope to get busy in the dash to September.Credit: AFL Photos
Who’s not: The season-ending knee injury to veteran midfielder Callan Ward was a heartbreaking story. The Giants had hoped Jake Stringer would be the difference-maker up forward, but the former Bulldog and Bomber has managed only eight games because of injury, and 10 goals. Can he get himself going in the run home to the finals? Former skipper Stephen Coniglio (three games) and Daniels (six games) have struggled to overcome injuries. Coach Adam Kingsley will also want Josh Kelly to return to his best form and deliver more than just the one goal, so far, to his name.
Verdict: The Giants have been hard to read, and that’s been concerning for a team that should be in the premiership window. They have had two spurts of four wins in five games, interspersed by a run of four losses in five games, when their defence fell apart, ranked 16th for defending scores from intercepts, and 18th for defending scores from clearances. However, they are the only team to have beaten Collingwood, Geelong and Brisbane, and shape as a September x-factor. They have settled several key areas over the past fortnight, and will look to take advantage of a relatively friendly fixture in the run home to September.
Jon Pierik’s grade: B
Teams with the round 15 bye
Melbourne (15th, 5-9)
Who’s hot: Running defender Jake Bowey has been in excellent touch and is pushing for All-Australian selection. Kysaiah Pickett, complete with a whopping new $12 million contract, has had moments of brilliance up forward (he is the club’s leading goal-kicker with 24) and when pushed into the midfield, where he has added line-breaking speed – something the Demons lack. Skipper Max Gawn remains the league’s No.1 ruckman, but his kicking can be an issue, while Christian Petracca (25.29 disposals per game) and Clayton Oliver (25.54 per game) have been steady, without having the match-turning impact their lucrative contracts suggest they should deliver. Petracca is yet to consistently regain the influence he had before his horrific injuries last year, while the Demons even used Oliver as a tagger when Jack Viney was concussed and missed a month. Petracca, Oliver and Viney also need to improve their percentage of kicks which find a target. Oliver’s lack of leg speed can also hurt. Trent Rivers, Ed Langdon (also used as a tagger) and Christian Salem have been steady, while mid-sized forward Jake Melksham has done enough to warrant a contract extension. Youngsters Caleb Windsor and Xavier Lindsay, and emerging defender Judd McVee, have been good.
Working his way back: Christian Petracca has yet to rediscover his consistent best form.Credit: AFL Photos
Who’s not: The Demons, as a whole. They dropped their opening five games, embraced a more attacking game plan to win five of their next six, but have again fallen in a hole, losing their past three. Premiership forward Bayley Fritsch has been disappointing, and was even dropped to the VFL, while Harry Petty is not the answer up forward, despite the Demons continually playing him there. Fellow forward Jacob van Rooyen has had a stinker of a campaign so far and managed only eight senior games. Star defender Steven May, an intercept king, has been exposed when forced to play man-on-man where his leg speed is tested.
Verdict: This has been a season of misery for the Demons, who espoused the benefits of “love” through the pre-season. Major change is coming, even if Simon Goodwin remains in charge for the final season of his contract next year. Old habits persist, particularly bombing the ball long into the forward line – an area the Demons say they continually work hard to change. Their intercept-to-score rate, and scores per inside-50, transformed through their winning surge, but have since receded. Demons fans are tired of the same old excuses season after season, as this squad should be in premiership calculations.
Jon Pierik’s grade: C-
Hawthorn (5th, 9-5)
Who’s hot: Jack Gunston has been on fire up forward, just when it seemed like he was destined to be a sub for much of the season, posting 28 goals and 13 goal assists. With Mitch Lewis and Calsher Dear on the comeback trail from injury, the Hawks needed Gunston desperately and he has delivered. Jai Newcombe has won plenty of the footy and played with his usual grunt, while Karl Amon continues to impress with his kicking skills and drive. Lloyd Meek fits perfectly as their ruckman, while the versatile Blake Hardwick has produced both in defence and as a stand-in forward.
Jack Gunston of the Hawks celebrates a goal against Adelaide.Credit: AFL Photos
Who’s not: Will Day was on-track for the hot list until he suffered a stress fracture in his foot in April. The Hawks sorely miss his leadership and his ability to lift in key moments. They are a different side without him, and he’s not due back until at least round 20. Jack Ginnivan was a match-winner for the Hawks last season but has been a little more inconsistent this campaign. Conor Nash has done well when on the field but his four-match ban for a late hit on Gryan Miers hurt the Hawks, who desperately missed his athleticism and versatility.
The verdict: The Hawks are being graded on a much-higher curve this year, and they look like they have much more improvement left to come. They’ve been unconvincing at times but have still won enough games to be within touch of the top four. Premierships aren’t won in the first half of the season, but they can be lost through injuries and bad losses. Skipper James Sicily has battled injury, finally resting in the lead-up to the bye. His health, and how Day returns, will truly decide if this Hawks side pushes for a premiership, or fades out.
Roy Ward’s grade: B-
Adelaide (4th, 9-5)
Who’s hot: Jordan Dawson has been exceptional and should rank among the Brownlow contenders come season’s end. He’s a match-winner in the middle and a difference maker when pushing forward. Alex Neal-Bullen has made a big difference as a runner and ball-winner, while Ben Keays is approaching his best in a similar role. Riley Thilthorpe is approaching the peak of his powers as a key forward and contested mark option, and watch for Daniel Curtin – the tall wingman looks more dangerous with each game.
Alex Neal-Bullen celebrates a goal with teammate Isaac Cumming.Credit: Getty Images
Who’s not: It’s hard to find too many strugglers for the Crows but losing Matt Crouch to a hip injury for another four to six weeks hurts as he rates among their leaders in disposals while the onus will be on forwards Thilthorpe, Taylor Walker and Darcy Fogarty to convert their shots for goal and be as efficient as possible with scoring chances as that only becomes more important as the finals come around. Whether Nick Murray can return to a defensive role after a knee injury or whether Jordan Butts, Josh Worrell, Max Michalanney and Mark Keane retain those positions is also a watching brief.
The verdict: Aside from the early loss to Gold Coast, the Crows couldn’t have asked for a better first half of the season. They are in the hunt for the top four, have the best percentage in the league and have relatively few serious injuries. Luck has been on the Crows’ side in their wins over the Brisbane Lions and Port Adelaide. But they’ve also made their own good fortune, with five wins by at least 60 points. Winning more away games and improving their defence will decide whether they are a real contender or fodder for the top sides.
Roy Ward’s grade: B+
West Coast Eagles (18th, 1-13)
Who’s hot: This is a tough question for a team that has just one win. But we are giving coach Andrew McQualter a break in his rookie season as he looks to implement a game plan that will turn this once-mighty club back around. Reuben Ginbey has shown good signs in defence, while midfielder Brady Hough looks promising. Recruits Liam Baker and Jack Graham have been solid, while Elijah Hewett has overcome injury to look like a long-term piece. Harley Reid is always in the spotlight, and has had bursts of brilliance, reinforcing why he will likely be the best player in the game down the track. He is averaging just under 18 disposals per game, and has nine goals for the season, but his ability to run out games remains an issue. Mid-season find Tom McCarthy was a standout against the Blues and shapes as a lock at halfback for the rest of the campaign.
New boy: Eagles recruit Liam Baker, who won two premierships in his time with the Tigers, takes possession against his former team.Credit: AFL Photos
Who’s not: The Eagles, as a unit. When your coach rips you by declaring on national television that you have been “pathetic in the contest”, as McQualter said during quarter-time against the Blues last Sunday, that’s a worry. Indeed, it’s difficult not to say the Eagles have been pathetic for most of the season. Harsh? Perhaps. But look where they are sitting. Free-agent skipper Oscar Allen is hurt again, and may have played his last game for the club. Key forward Jake Waterman was already done for the year. Tim Kelly has openly discussed his motivational issues, due to the team’s on-field woes. Elliot Yeo is injured and is yet to play a game this season. The Eagles do not have a frontline ruckman, and Reid’s long-term future remains a daily talking point.
Verdict: This was once a mighty, proud club (that is still a financial colossus) that had all teams fearful of coming to Perth, or when the Eagles arrived in town. It’s been years since that was the case. They have just 11 wins since the start of the 2022 season, and major improvement appears years away. Ouch.
Jon Pierik’s grade: E
Teams with the round 14 bye
Collingwood (1st, 11-2)
Who’s hot: That’s an easy one to answer. The Magpies, as a collective, are. Having endured accusations they were too slow and old at the start of the season, these claims reinforced after a first-up loss to GWS, the Magpies are now premiership favourites. They have lost only one game since, and that was to Geelong by three points. Nick Daicos, despite some heavy tags, is averaging almost 30 disposals per game; brother Josh Daicos is not far behind in a new role at halfback. Ruckman Darcy Cameron is also in All-Australian calculations, while veterans Scott Pendlebury, Jeremy Howe and Steele Sidebottom are playing as if they are in their mid-20s. Forwards Jamie Elliott, Brodie Mihocek and Bobby Hill are getting the job done, while Tim Membrey, Harry Perryman and Dan Houston have been excellent additions. Ned Long has been the feel-good story of the season. The list goes on.
Still getting it done: Nick Daicos was shadowed by Ed Langdon during the King’s Birthday clash, but still had a major impact.Credit: Getty Images
Who’s not: Jordan de Goey has managed only five games because of injury (groin and now Achilles), and he clearly lacked his typical zest in those games. He remains the Magpies’ x-factor, particularly when the September stage rolls around and a bull with dash and flare is needed. If he cannot reclaim full fitness, and therefore maximum on-field impact, the Magpies may fall just short. Mason Cox has been in and out of the team, and faces an uncertain future, particularly with Daniel McStay keen to make his presence felt inside attacking 50.
Verdict: A record of 11 wins from their past 12 games should only get better immediately after the bye when the Magpies have three-straight games against bottom-half teams – St Kilda, West Coast and Carlton. Barring a major mishap, they will finish top two, and have potentially all of their finals at the MCG. Their injury list will also improve, with Brayden Maynard (foot) a chance to return against the Saints, with De Goey and Lachie Schultz (hamstring) to be given time to be at peak fitness. Coach Craig McRae has his men playing a considered brand of football, with the Magpies arguably the best team using the ball forward of centre. And, when it comes to close games, there is no better side at plucking victory.
Jon Pierik’s grade: A
Richmond (17th, 3-10)
Who’s hot: Captain Toby Nankervis has been sterling in a young team needing their senior players to show the way. His work in the ruck has been tireless, and his physicality has allowed the Tiger cubs to walk taller. Nick Vlastuin, another from their premiership era, has held firm in a backline that has had much to do. Midfield pair Tim Taranto and Jacob Hopper have also stepped up to play key roles in the Tigers’ rare victories. Much has been made of the Tigers’ bevy of high draft picks, but it’s the Tasmanian from the rookie list, Seth Campbell, who has caught the eye the most with his pressure and nous around goals. His celebratory somersault after kicking the sealer against Carlton in round one will live long in the memories of the Richmond faithful.
Who’s not: Noah Balta owes his club big time. Just two months after signing a mammoth seven-year contract extension, the key defender assaulted a man in a NSW car park. As a result of the club-imposed sanction and the curfew ordered by the magistrate, Balta has played just five out of 13 games in a season when the Tigers need his experience. It’s a big final three months of the season for Dion Prestia, who has managed only 15 of 36 games since the start of last year due to a series of injuries. The 32-year-old won’t be part of the Tigers’ next finals team but can play an important buffering role while prized picks Sam Lalor and Josh Smillie cut their teeth at the top level.
The verdict: As tough as it may be for Tigers fans to watch their side lose most weeks, even the harshest judge would be encouraged by the progress made so early in their rebuild. While the exodus of mature-age talent was supposed to result in the reigning wooden-spooner plumbing deeper lows, the arrival of fresh blood who actually want to be there has seen the Tigers already improve on their two wins. With games to come against Essendon, West Coast (away), St Kilda and North Melbourne, they should be able to pick up another one or two wins to nourish the soul without much damage to their draft hand.
Andrew Wu’s grade: C+
Gold Coast Suns (5th, 8-4)
Who’s hot: Well, it’s finally getting hot for the Suns where it really counts – on the ladder. They are primed to play finals for the first time in club history – but, yes, we have said that before, and a challenging run home to September awaits. This time, though, Damien Hardwick has his team playing a robust brand of football that should stand up when it counts. New skipper Noah Anderson is in All-Australian form, while Matt Rowell has added more run to his game. The Suns are giving Rowell time to sign a contract extension, but it’s a major worry the Victorian, with several suitors, has yet to do so. Perhaps that changes soon after the bye. Touk Miller is another midfielder pressing for All-Australian selection, while defender Sam Collins and mid-sized forward Ben Long would be locks for that team were it picked now. Key forward Ben King would also be close. Recruits Daniel Rioli and John Noble have done what was expected – provide dash and creativity from half-back.
On our way: Matt Rowell and Ben King have had strong starts to the season, helping the Suns eye a maiden finals berth.Credit: Getty Images
Who’s not: Half-back flanker Connor Budarick has been in and out of the team and has not played at the senior level since the loss to the Lions. While Rioli and Noble enjoy the rebound accolades in defensive 50, a firing Budarick would also help. As Hardwick has noted, the Suns need to stop kicking to King when he is outnumbered. King had 23 goals in his first six games, the 24-year-old has 10 in his past six games. It’s over to Ethan Read, Jed Walter and Ned Moyle to get busy.
The verdict: The Suns likely need only five more wins to book a September berth, but face a potentially tough month after the break – GWS [Engie Stadium], Melbourne [People First Stadium], Essendon [Marvel Stadium] and Collingwood [People First Stadium]. Richmond [in round 21] appears their only certain win in the run home, but if they are good enough, they will make the finals. Their game plan is strong – they are among the best teams for points from turnovers, intercepts and stoppages, and know how to lock the ball inside their forward-half. It’s about time the Suns broke their finals duck – we’re backing Hardwick in.
Jon Pierik’s grade: B
Sydney (13th, 5-8)
Who’s hot: Twelve months ago, the Swans were flag favourites and Isaac Heeney the top pick to win the Brownlow. That’s not the case now, but Heeney remains their best-performed player. The gun midfielder is on track for similar numbers to his career-best 2024 but is lacking the same impact. The same could be said of Chad Warner, whose form has improved since the distraction of being out of contract was removed. Tagger James Jordon can count midfield stars Sam Walsh and Zach Merrett among his scalps. Youngster Matt Roberts continues to grow as a running defender, backing up his rapid improvement from last year.
Who’s not: An All Australian halfback last year, Nick Blakey is struggling with the extra attention on him. Injuries have forced the Swans to play him deeper, limiting his capacity to provide the springboard from defence that was a feature of their game last year. Ollie Florent paid the price for the Swans’ poor form, his recent omission ending a run of 130 consecutive games. Hayden McLean is another from their grand final team who has also been dropped this year as the Swans search for marking power in their weakened forward line. Now that he is fit after a wretched 18 months with injury, skipper Callum Mills has the chance in the second half of the season to remind his critics why the club made him captain.
Verdict: Injuries have wreaked havoc with rookie coach Dean Cox’s first season at the helm. All Australians Errol Gulden, Tom Papley, Mills have all spent chunks of the season injured, as have reliable defender Harry Cunningham and young key forward Logan McDonald. Throw them all into the Swans’ 23, and it’s unlikely they would be in such a desperate position. The crowded casualty ward has exposed a lack of depth. That said, the Swans have been so poor in several games that it would not have mattered who they had on the park. A fitter list raises hope they can mount a charge for the finals, but they are coming from a long way back.
Andrew Wu’s grade: D+
Teams who had the bye in round 13
St Kilda (11th, 5-7)
Who’s hot?
Jack Higgins has been a consistent force up forward, the small forward leading the Saints’ goal kicking – including four goals against Geelong – to be included in the All-Australian preliminary squad. Jack Sinclair (27 disposals per game) and Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera (28) have been two of the premier rebounding half-backs. The dashing Wanganeen-Milera, off-contract and weighing up offers to return home to South Australia, has become the Saints’ most important player, and the best player they have had in the past decade. That he has yet to agree to a contract extension by this point of the season is a major worry for the Saints. Former Western Bulldog Jack Macrae has been a strong leader through the midfield and found plenty of the ball (before a major lung injury), while intercept defender Callum Wilkie should be in All-Australian squad discussions. Youngster Hugo Garcia is making progress, despite a public spray from Ross Lyon during the loss to Brisbane and recent axing to the VFL. Marcus Windhager, one of several off-contract Saints, has, at times, been a stand-out, whether tagging or finding his own ball.
Cookin’: Jack Higgins has had a strong season, and will be in All-Australian squad calculations.Credit: AFL Photos via Getty Images
Who’s not?
Young midfielder Darcy Wilson has stagnated, while Mattaes Phillipou has endured an injury-hit start to the season, the latest a calf injury in the opening minutes against Melbourne. Wingman Brad Hill still provides dash, but there are times when he could rip a game open. Rowan Marshall has been steady, but is no longer among the conversation as one of the top three ruckmen in the league. Injuries to Max King and Zaine Cordy have hurt.
Verdict: The Saints are 2-4 against top-eight teams, including their best win of the season, against Geelong. They are a system-based side, so, when the system wobbles, the whole team wobbles, which can lead to heavy defeats. The flip side is what we saw against Melbourne, when they dominated through scores from defence. That they are the only team to lose to the last-placed Eagles highlights the gulf between their worst and best. The Saints still remain a line-ball finals contender, as they were before this campaign began. Through that prism, they sit where many had expected.
Jon Pierik’s grade: C+
Man on a mission: Caleb Serong has been influential for the Dockers this season.Credit: AFL Photos
Fremantle (8th, 7-5)
Who’s hot?
Midfield gun Caleb Serong (28 disposals per game) typically finds plenty of the ball, but has struggled, at times, when there has been an aggressive tag. Fellow star onballer Andrew Brayshaw (also 28 disposals per game) has been busy, and put his body on the line in the desperate final minutes against Gold Coast on Saturday, and is also firmly in contention for All-Australian selection. Jordan Clark has provided drive from half-back, Shai Bolton has added life inside attacking 50 and been arguably the second-best recruit of the season (behind Bailey Smith), while Luke Jackson has been at his best when used as a sole ruckman. The Dockers have been one of the more efficient teams, according to Champion Data, but need to find more marks inside 50 if they are to challenge for a top-four spot.
Who’s not?
Sean Darcy, tied to the club until the end of 2030, has largely been a shadow of his former self because of an off-season hampered by a knee issue but was strong in ruck contests in the wet against the Suns. Whether he and Jackson can thrive in the same team remains a burning question for coach Justin Longmuir. It also remains to be seen if talls Josh Treacy, Jye Amiss and Pat Voss can consistently also work alongside each other up forward, as the Dockers have struggled to turn inside-50 advantage into scores. That could also be because of a lack of speed with ball in hand, something the Dockers have looked to address. It was great to see Nat Fyfe back for his first senior game of the season last weekend. Hayden Young’s extended absence because of a serious hamstring injury which has required surgery has hurt. He shapes as an x-factor later in the season.
Verdict: The Dockers remain an enigma. They have a list capable of finishing in the top four, reinforced by their win on the Gold Coast and their three wins in five games against top-eight teams, but have had head-shaking losses, including a 61-point defeat to St Kilda at Marvel Stadium, and a 14-point loss at home to a depleted Collingwood. The pressure remains on Longmuir to deliver a deep finals run.
Jon Pierik’s grade: B-
Teams who had the bye in round 12
Carlton (12th, 4-7)
Who’s hot?
In his 10th season, Jack Silvagni has been a revelation in his new role as a defender. Silvagni’s ability to stop high-quality forwards, from a key type like Aaron Naughton to the medium-sized threat like Patrick Dangerfield, intercept and launch counter-attacks is one of the reasons why the Blues, for all their problems, has been one of the more difficult sides to score against. A streamlined George Hewett is having a career-best season in the midfield at the age of 29, and Nick Haynes has overcome a horror start to life as a Blue by turning the clock back to the pre-pandemic years. Tom De Koning was the best ruck in the competition in the first month, but his form has tailed off. Jacob Weitering had been in All-Australian form before two below-par games coming into the bye.
Jack Silvagni has been a revelation in defence for the Blues so far this season.Credit: AFL Photos
Who’s not?
The Blues need more from their superstars. Patrick Cripps and Charlie Curnow are having reasonable years but are capable of finding another level. Harry McKay has struggled with consistency since returning from a mental health break, though his best has been the reason why the Blues have won. After another interrupted preseason, Sam Walsh has become just a player, unable to run opponents off their legs like he used to. The same can be said of Blake Acres, who is not having the same impact of his first two years at the club.
Verdict: So much more was expected of the Blues, who have been one of the most disappointing clubs of the season. Despite having two Coleman medallists in their forward line the Blues are having enormous difficulties scoring. Their lack of class small forwards has hurt, but their ball movement is slow and imprecise. They are as tense as a patient visiting the dentist. Similar problems were overcome in 2023 when they mounted a stunning run to the preliminary final, but they do not have the same quality on their list. A friendly draw over the next month will give Blues fans hope but a finals berth is unlikely.
Andrew Wu’s grade: D+
Tristan Xerri is mounting a case for All-Australian selection this year.Credit: Getty Images
North Melbourne (17th, 2-8, draw)
Who’s hot?
After a slow start to the season, Tristan Xerri is again mounting a strong claim for a maiden All-Australian blazer. The ruckman, with his attack on the ball and wholehearted manner in which he plays, has become the Kangaroos’ on-field spiritual leader. Small forward Paul Curtis has continued his improvement and, with 19 goals to the bye, is on track to pass his career-best haul of 30 last year. Cameron Zurhaar has rediscovered his bull-at-a-gate ways in attack to add much-needed bite to the forward line. Veteran Luke Parker has justified his acquisition on the field even if his greatest impact might be felt in the locker room.
Who’s not?
This might be harsh on North’s leading possession-getter but Caleb Daniel is not having the impact he should. A damaging kick at his best, Daniel has often erred on the side of recklessness with his ball use by taking low-percentage options deep in defence. In his third year at Arden Street, Griffin Logue cannot get a clear run at it due to injury and now form. Dropped amid North’s horror run, Logue is yet to reclaim his position in the side. The Roos need more from experienced duo Aidan Corr and Zac Fisher, who have both had stints in the VFL.
Caleb Daniel: Plenty of possessions but more impact needed.Credit: Getty Images
Verdict: As painful as this season has been for their fans, North have actually improved. At this stage last year, they were winless with a percentage of 55.9 and uncompetitive. This year, they have been in contention at three-quarter-time in eight games. The question is whether North should be further advanced after five seasons in the bottom two.
Given they have traded away their first pick, the Kangaroos would have expected to have picked up an extra win or two instead of being in the familiar position of 17th.
Andrew Wu’s grade: D+
Port Adelaide (15th, 4-7)
Who’s hot?
Port’s best phase of the season came after Zak Butters returned from injury. Butters was instrumental in Port’s best win of the year, against Hawthorn, but needs more help in the guts. The Power cannot afford to lose him. Moved to half-back, Connor Rozee has maintained his high standards while others’ have fallen, though Port need him in the middle as well as providing run out of defence. Though not necessarily built for it, Mitch Georgiades has prospered being the main man in the forward 50. Miles Bergman’s star is on the rise though he, like Butters, may be on the move at season’s end.
Who’s not?
Esava Ratugolea, Ivan Soldo, and Jordon Sweet were recruited at the end of 2023 to help Port take the next step. Eighteen months on, those moves have not had the desired effect. Ratugolea is struggling in an overworked defence that does not get enough pressure on the ball from up the field. Sweet lost his spot after being monstered by Tim English, and his understudy Soldo is out of favour. The move of Jeremy Finlayson into defence lasted just one disastrous game against Collingwood.
Ed Richards has been a midfield weapon for the Western Bulldogs.Credit: Getty Images
Verdict: Ken Hinkley’s 13th and final season at the helm at Alberton is headed for an inglorious finish. Preliminary finalists last year, Port are headed for a bottom-six finish. The impending handover from Hinkley to Josh Carr is an easy target to explain Port’s poor season even though many had tipped them to be this season’s slider. The club would not have seen such a drop coming, given they traded out their first-round pick for Jack Lukosius, who has been injured.
Most concerning is how quickly the Power have waved the white flag when things became difficult. Five of the heaviest losses of the Hinkley era have come in Port’s last 24 games.
Andrew Wu’s grade: E
Western Bulldogs (7th, 6-5)
Who’s hot?
Ed Richards has morphed from a capable half-back into one of the game’s best midfielders in the past 12 months. Richards’ speed and penetrating left foot makes him a major weapon for the Dogs. Rebounding defender Bailey Dale, who had a career-best 49 possessions a fortnight ago, is on track for a second All-Australian blazer. Tom Liberatore is defying Father Time. Small forward Rhylee West is one of the most improved players in the league, thriving since taking over from the injured Cody Weightman. Matt Kennedy is close to the recruit of the year since his move from Carlton, revelling as a midfielder who can also be dangerous when moved forward.
Who’s not?
Veteran defender Liam Jones has struggled after having his pre-season severely disrupted by a serious hamstring injury. He lost his place to former cricketer James O’Donnell, who has performed admirably in the key defensive post alongside the rejuvenated Rory Lobb. Injuries threatened to derail the season. Marcus Bontempelli, Adam Treloar, Sam Darcy have all spent significant periods in a star-studded casualty ward at Whitten Oval, but all are either back or will return shortly after the bye for the Dogs’ run to September.
Verdict: So much could have gone wrong for the injury-hit Dogs but coach Luke Beveridge has navigated a safe passage through treacherous waters. A contract extension looms. At the start of the year, most Dogs fans would have happily accepted a 6-5 record and seventh given their extensive injury toll. The wins they banked while undermanned have given the Dogs a serious chance to break into the top four in the second half of the year. Of their remaining 12 games, only four are against teams currently in the eight, and they leave Victoria only twice. Though they have been close against the best, their next challenge will be to claim a scalp to stamp themselves as a top premiership contender. They’ll get their chance straight after the bye against Hawthorn.
Andrew Wu’s grade: A
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