Hi everyone,
It was a relief to see more close games this week. Umpiring decisions and flawed technology are still major talking points.
On the field
It’s possible that Collingwood has never kicked so straight as they did last Thursday night at the MCG against Hawthorn. A very accurate 15.3.93 nearly carried the Maggies to victory. The Hawks’ Dylan Moore, however, converted an after-the-siren shot for goal, which enabled Hawthorn to draw level. Two more exciting games followed on Friday night. In ‘Showdown 59’ at the Adelaide Oval, the Crows prevailed by a point (76-75), courtesy of a Brayden Cook running, long-range goal with only 10 seconds remaining. This was one of the closest games ever between the two teams, featuring numerous lead changes and a dramatic final minute before a capacity crowd. At Marvel Stadium, the Western Bulldogs led the favoured Freo Dockers at halftime, but the visitors were able to turn things around in the second half and come away with a 17.12.114 to 15.12.102 victory.
On Saturday, the Brisbane Lions had little trouble defeating Essendon 22.11.143 to 11.13.79 at Marvel, while Geelong eventually broke away from a plucky North Melbourne in the second half to defeat the ‘Roos by 49 points. Richmond travelled to Perth this week to face the Eagles and came away with an exciting 11-point victory, their first of the season. Carlton again folded in the second half as St Kilda kicked 12 goals to 2 after halftime. Final score: Saints 16,12,108 defeated Blues 9.15.69. z
On Sunday, the Sydney Swans overcame Melbourne by 17 points at the SCG. The Dees started well and finished strongly to make the score close, but the Swans had too much firepower for them. In the late game, the Gold Coast Suns defeated GWS by 20 points.
Tipping
Congratulations to Mulski, the Grumpy Swimmer and Huw Provis, all of whom tipped a perfect round of 9/9 this week. Well done, gents and Huw, you win the dining credit at the club by virtue of being closest on the margin game. There has been little change to our overall leaderboard from last week, but Romo has edged ahead of John Naughton at the top by virtue of doing better in the cumulative margin.
Leaderboard
Romo 57
John Naughton 57
Jeremy Posner 57
Caramondo 56
Big D 56
Bruce McBriar 56
P Dallimore 55
Super Storm 55
Richard Jones 55
Flying Doctor 55
Pies London Fan 55
Boy from SNB 55
Luke Capt Awesome 55
Barb 31 55
Tedwood 068 55
GPD 49er
The second-placed Fremantle Dockers will host third-placed Hawthorn at Optus Stadium in Perth this Thursday night to start Round 9. Don’t forget to place your tips.
Don