Hi everyone,
Round 1 saw a full slate of games, but not many tight finishes.
On the field
The closest game was the Thursday night fixture between long-time rivals Richmond & Carlton, which saw the Blues hang on for a narrow 75-71 win. After leading by 27 points at the half, Carlton again crumbled in the second half, managing just a single goal after halftime. The Tigers squandered numerous chances and ultimately lost a game they should have won. On Friday night, Hawthorn crushed Essendon by 62 points as the Bombers fell away in the second half.
The Western Bulldogs made a big statement on Saturday afternoon by trouncing the visiting GWS Giants at Marvel Stadium by 81 points. The final score was WB 21.8.134, GWS 7.11.53. Marcus Bontempelli played an incredible game for the Doggies, inspiring the victory. The WB midfielders were in top form. Fremantle travelled to Geelong on Saturday and had the upper hand for most of the first three quarters. The experienced Cats, however, dug deep and found a way back to win this game by 10 points. After their disappointing ‘straight sets’ exit from last year’s finals, the Adelaide Crows were keen to get back in the winner’s circle. They did so thanks to a 6-goal-to-2 third quarter against Collingwood at the MCG on Saturday night, which set up their 14-point win over the favoured Magpies. The win was the first for the Crows over Collingwood at the MCG since 2014. Also on Saturday night, the Sydney Swans belted Brisbane by 44 points at the SCG to move to 2-0 on the season.
On Sunday, North Melbourne won their first game with an impressive 17.11.113 to 9.13.67 victory over Port Adelaide at Marvel Stadium. Across the city at the MCG, the Melbourne Demons rallied to defeat St Kilda by 13 points. The game had multiple lead changes and the Dees Jacob Van Rooyen’s six goals proved decisive. In the final game, the Gold Coast Suns recorded a comfortable victory over the visiting West Coast Eagles at People First Stadium, Carrara.
Tipping
Congratulations to the 18 tipsters who managed to tip 7 winners this week. After one round, we have a 17-way tie for top spot on 10 points.
Leaderboard after Round 1
John Naughton, Lynchey, Minksy, Barb 31, WJC, CazzaSG, Derek Hanna, Murray3194, Darty, Bart73, JaciTips, Yehno, Flying Doctor, LamboM73, Bruce McBriar, John Trajanovski, Maggies 25 all on 10 points after 14 games.
Have a great week, everyone. The opening game of Round 2 will see Hawthorn hosting Sydney at the MCG this Thursday night. Please place your tips.
Don