Round 24 AFL Recap: High Drama, Missed Opportunities, and Rising Stars
As Round 24 of the AFL season draws to a close, the dust has settled, but the echoes of the weekend's games are still reverberating through the footy community. This round was packed with drama, surprise upsets, and a few emerging narratives that could shape the upcoming finals. Let’s dive into the big talking points and the burning questions that have everyone buzzing.
Fremantle’s Disappointing Fall
One of the most striking stories from this round was Fremantle’s dramatic decline. Once a top contender, the Dockers found themselves slipping down the ladder, and their performance in Round 24 only cemented this unfortunate trend. Despite having everything set up for success—a home game against Port Adelaide and a chance to secure a finals spot—Fremantle couldn’t deliver when it mattered most. The Dockers’ inability to capitalize on early-season momentum and their poor ball handling proved costly. A team that was in third place just a few rounds ago, now finds itself out of the finals race altogether, a heartbreaking end to what many had hoped would be a promising season.
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The Bulldogs: A Maturing Force
On the other side of the spectrum, the Western Bulldogs have shown signs of growth and resilience, particularly in their Round 24 clash against GWS. Their 98-61 victory in Ballarat wasn’t just about securing a spot in the finals; it was a statement. The Bulldogs have often been criticized for their inconsistency, but this performance suggests they are turning a corner. Their ability to handle pressure and execute their game plan under challenging conditions could be the missing piece in their pursuit of a premiership. With eight wins in their last ten games, the Bulldogs are peaking at the right time, and their newfound maturity could make them a formidable opponent in the finals.
Brownlow Medal Contenders Shine Bright
As we edge closer to the Brownlow Medal count, Round 24 saw the leading contenders put on a show. From Patrick Cripps to Nick Daicos, the competition's elite players delivered performances that could tip the scales in this year's count. Daicos kicked off the weekend with a stunning 40 disposals and two goals, while Lachie Neale and Zach Merrett battled it out at the Gabba with equally impressive stats. Marcus Bontempelli and Cripps rounded off the weekend with standout games, ensuring that this year’s Brownlow race will be one of the most exciting and tightly contested in recent memory.
Collingwood’s Ed Allan: A Star in the Making
For Collingwood fans, the performance of Ed Allan in just his second AFL game was a highlight of the weekend. The young player showed he has the potential to be a significant asset for the Magpies in the years to come. Standing at 194cm and demonstrating impressive athleticism, Allan collected 21 disposals, six tackles, and a goal, giving fans a glimpse of what could be a bright future for the 20-year-old. His ability to adapt quickly to the rigors of AFL, combined with his physical attributes, suggests that Allan could play a crucial role for Collingwood, possibly alongside superstar Nick Daicos, in the near future.
Sydney’s Selection Dilemma
Lastly, the Sydney Swans, having secured the minor premiership, now face a selection headache ahead of their Qualifying Final against GWS. With key players like Tom Papley and Isaac Heeney set to return, the Swans will need to make some tough decisions. The depth of talent at Sydney’s disposal is a great problem to have, but it means that some players who have contributed significantly during the season may find themselves on the sidelines. It’s a challenging position for the Swans' selection committee, but one that underscores their strength as they head into the finals.
As we move towards the finals, Round 24 has set the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating conclusion to the 2024 AFL season. Whether it's the heartbreak for some teams or the emerging strength of others, the weekend’s results have left fans eager for what comes next.
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