Russell Bennett is a deputy editor (sport) at The Age.
The Crows’ skipper was at his on-field best in another incredible display during a period of such personal tragedy off the field.
Geelong and Gold Coast champion Gary Ablett has been honoured for his glittering contribution to the game, joining his father and namesake in the Australian Football Hall of Fame.
After the Dockers annihilated North Melbourne in Bunbury, the Lions returned to form in the Q-Clash. Super Saturday then closed out with the Power surviving a late scare against the Eagles.
It was heartbreak for Arsenal, who went down 4-3 in the penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra-time.
The cream rose to the top for Fremantle at Optus Stadium. Meanwhile, Richmond turned Dreamtime at the ’G into a nightmare for the besieged Bombers and their coach Brad Scott.
After the Swans and Giants won heart-stoppers, the Cats were too good for the Magpies and Scott Pendlebury as he equalled the games record of 432 matches.
The Giants’ banner on Saturday had nothing under Essendon’s “strengths”, and 7916 days under “weaknesses” – directly referencing the Bombers’ finals win drought.
It wasn’t quite the stuff dreams are made of, but Harvey Gallagher will never forget the finish to this prime-time clash with Port Adelaide at the Adelaide Oval.
Voss said it was important Ollie Hollands still travelled with the group and could be around his mates after a week of such intense scrutiny on the club.
It’s a rate Friday double act as Geelong host the Western Bulldogs at GMHBA Stadium, and the Swans host the latest chapter of “the Battle of the Bridge”. Follow all the action live.