It is an interesting time in the AFL season, right now.
Yesterday, I was chatting to a few of the Mongrel writers and the subject of the Dogs v Saints game came up. With both Jamarra Ugle-Hagan and Max King out of action for this one, one considered a bit of the gloss taken off the contest.
I was of the opposite opinion. I love seeing where teams adjust and how the coaches justify their salaries. This game is going to do just that, with the side able to best cover the loss of their number one forward – and Jamarra is now the number one forward at the Kennel – likely to walk away with the win.
But there are so many stories this weekend – so many games with so much on the line. It seems strange to be talking about season-defining games in Round Six. I mean, next week is worth the same amount of points as this week, but this week just feels big.
The Saints are 11th and the Dogs are 12th heading into this game. Both are better than the 2-3 records they possess, and it almost seems unfair that one will drop to 2-4 after this week. It’s a long road back from there.
The Crows got win number one last week but need to capitalise on it. Against the resurgent Bombers, they need to defend Adelaide Oval and pick up a second win if they are any chance of fulfilling the promise they demonstrated in 2023.
Collingwood welcome Port Adelaide to the MCG – what a clash. The Pies are now without Nathan Murphy for good, the defender pulling up stumps during the week due to concussion-related issues. That said, the defence is now looking more settled, with Billy Frampton playing a key role in support of the captain. But Port’s midfield is electrifying and need to be kept under control.
Carlton and GWS… far out! Two contenders slugging it out under the roof at Marvel. The Blues were brought back to earth last week, whilst the Giants are riding a five-game win streak. This should be the clash of the round.
The Lions and Cats – Geelong undefeated headed to the Gabba to face a Brisbane team on the road back. Another belter!
The Derby – is there is ever a derby without passion and feeling? Adding to that, two stinging close losses for the Dockers, and the Eagles finally picking up a win – it’s on!
The Gold Coast Suns have a great recent record at the SCG, and look to upset the Swans as they come off the bye. Can Sydney stand up to the new-found Suns pressure that made the Hawks look like brown and gold witches hats last week?
And finally, spoonbowl! Is this where we learn if North Melbourne have made progress? They have had a horror run with the fixture early in the season, and now get to face off against a fellow team without a win. This game gives us an indication of where both lists are at.
In short, there is not a dud match amongst this weekend’s games – a great piece of work/luck by those who create the fixture. Let’s jump into some of the finer points.
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Every week, HB produces several columns and game reviews for mongrel members. This be one of ’em, ye scurvy dogs! I believe work such as this is worth twenty-five cents per day. If you don’t, that’s fine. You’re welcome to join and keep reading if you do.
