The Eagles put a spanner in the works, upsetting the Crows by 29 points in Adelaide last night. No Nic Nat, no Eagles was the word around town but in steps Jon Giles who played one of the best games of his career. The Crows, still smarting from a Showdown hangover, were sluggish all night. The Eagles had stars everywhere in Tom Barrass and Jeremy McGovern fantastic down back, Andrew Gaff, Luke Shuey and Priddis dominant in the midfield, and Josh Kennedy (five goals to secure the Coleman) and Jack Darling dangerous up forward. They're a genuine flag smokey, having won the last three on the trot. The loss means the Crows have dropped out of the four and now meet the Roos in a cut-throat elimination final. At least it's in Adelaide.
Today, the Bombers rewarded their fans for a tough year by beating the old enemy, Carlton, by 24 points at the MCG. A couple of favourites Joe Daniher (five goals) and Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (four goals) were outstanding. A disappointing end to a season that began with so much promise for Brendon Bolton and his Blues.
Sydney is the minor premier and Richmond is the major disappointment (again) following the Swans' 113-point win at the SCG. Buddy kicked seven, Benny McGlynn snagged five and Rohan finished with four. But they'll be sweating on the MVP's findings on this tackle by Naismith.
Tonight, Port accounted for the Suns at Metricon Stadium by 23 points. Robbie Gray had 34 touches and kicked four majors. Jay Schulz, who is seeking a contract at another club next season, finished with three.
Finally, GWS are stoked with their 37-point win over the Roos. They've secured a top-four spot and will probably play Sydney at ANZ Stadium in the First Qualifying Final. Patton bagged five, Stevie J four. It ends a horror week for North after they announced they would not renew contracts to Spud Firrito, Drew Petrie, Boomer Harvey and Nick Dal Santo. There are injury concerns over Jamie Macmillan, too. The Roos most likely travel to Adelaide in a knock-out final.
Come back tomorrow to see if the Lions can 'win' the spoon by losing to St Kilda, whether the Pies can upset the Hawks and Pav's finale against the Dogs in Perth. I won't be here but someone else (probably someone better) will be.
Thanks for reading the blog. See you next time.