Round 17 kicked off on Friday night at Subiaco. Hawthorn needed to win to keep its finals aspirations alive but were unable to return to Melbourne with the four points. Despite being four points up at the major break, Hawthorn failed to go on with it. West Coast turned on nine goals in the second half and kept the Hawks goalless, to win by 56-points.
At quarter-time Essendon was on track to win its ninth match of the season after a six goal to one first term. However, Melbourne had other ideas and fought its way back into the match to make it a five-point ball game at half time. The wet conditions in the second half ensured it was a close match. Despite Melbourne having opportunities to win the match, Essendon kicked three goals against the wind in the final term to win by 17-points.
The Kangaroos fought off a determined Geelong outfit at Manuka Oval yesterday. Scores were tight all game, but it was a five goal final term by the Kangaroos that secured the win. The skipper Anthony Stevens was the catalyst to the 18-point win. He finished with 31 disposals and kicked two goals.
Richmond returned to the winner’s list last night when they convincingly defeated the Western Bulldogs. First gamer Martin McGrath made a debut that most players dream of. He kicked five goals and was a key contributor to the Tigers 60-point win. Matthew Richardson enjoyed a return to form collecting 29 possessions.
Port Adelaide and Brisbane turned on the match of the round and close to the game of the season. It was a titanic battle all match, with either team capable of winning. It appeared as though the game would be a draw until Port’s Roger James kicked a behind with 42 seconds left on the clock, to give Port the four points.
Adelaide dominated the match against St.Kilda today at AAMI Stadium. The visitors never looked in the hunt and went down by 57-points. Graham Johncock was instrumental up forward kicking six goals. Mark Ricciuto continued his stellar season and was best on ground with his 33 possessions.
Sydney proved that they are serious finals contenders when they defeated Fremantle today by 14-points. It was the Swans 12th victory for the season and the win keeps them in contention for second spot on the ladder. Barry Hall was good up forward for the Swans, kicking three goals
Collingwood won its fifth match in succession today when they defeated Carlton by 73-points at the MCG. The final result never looked in doubt when Collingwood got away to a seven goal first quarter – Carlton managed just one goal in the first term. Anthony Rocca was dangerous up forward and finished with four goals.
