Thilthorpe vs Andrew: AFL's Fiercest Emerging Rivalry Set to Ignite Again
What a clash we have on our hands! This Sunday, all eyes will be fixed on Adelaide Oval as two of the AFL’s most exciting young stars, Riley Thilthorpe and Mac Andrew, prepare to lock horns once again. This matchup is more than just a rematch—it's a continuation of a fierce, building rivalry that could define a decade of footy.
Back in round four, when Gold Coast edged out Adelaide by just a single point at People First Stadium, the ending was electric. Riley Thilthorpe had been almost unstoppable, kicking five goals and terrorizing the Suns’ defense. Meanwhile, Mac Andrew was battling hard against veteran Taylor Walker, who slotted three majors. But it was in the dying moments that the tension truly exploded. Thilthorpe, just metres from goal, gave away a costly free kick—and Andrew made sure he knew about it. But what followed made headlines: Andrew backing up his words with action, spoiling what looked like a certain game-saving mark from Thilthorpe using that Inspector Gadget-like reach.
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Even after the siren, the pair weren’t done. Words flew, teammates stepped in, and the drama continued. Since then, both players have only grown stronger. Thilthorpe now sits equal sixth in the Coleman Medal race with 39 goals and is coming off a career-best six-goal performance against the Bulldogs. He’s becoming a true powerhouse—third for contested marks across the league and one of the most dangerous forwards inside 50.
Andrew, on the other hand, has quietly refined his craft. Stepping up in the absence of Charlie Ballard, he's become a dependable lockdown defender. Yes, he’s had a couple of hiccups, like that missed clearance against GWS or the slip-up against Essendon—but overall, his one-on-one stats are right up there with the AFL's elite defenders. And he’s just 21.
Gold Coast coach Damien Hardwick summed it up best: "Mac reminds me of Alex Rance… capable of greatness." And honestly, that comparison feels spot-on. Andrew is bold, expressive, and learning fast—exactly what the Suns need.
Sunday’s rematch is more than just a game; it’s a storyline in motion. Whether or not Sam Collins returns, fans will be hoping Hardwick lets Andrew take on Thilthorpe again. Because this duel? It’s personal. It’s passionate. And it’s pure entertainment.
So if you're a footy fan, clear your schedule. Adelaide vs Gold Coast isn’t just about ladder positions—it’s about pride, promise, and two young guns going toe-to-toe once again. Grab the popcorn. This one’s going to be unmissable.
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