Round eight of the AFL season has concluded, marking a pivotal moment in the competition filled with unexpected outcomes and shifting team dynamics. The inconsistencies in form have left many fans and analysts scratching their heads, as teams like Sydney and Geelong rebounded from struggling performances to secure wins against formidable opponents, while Carlton and Port Adelaide saw their winning streaks come to an abrupt end.
Here are five significant takeaways from the weekend’s action:
Patrick Dangerfield’s Legend Grows
At 35, Patrick Dangerfield continues to solidify his Hall of Fame legacy, showcasing incredible talent as a forward. With 16 goals from eight games and an average of 17.4 disposals, his performance against Collingwood, where he achieved 29 disposals and contributed significantly with goal assists, highlights his enduring impact. Despite being in the twilight of his career, he remains a crucial asset for Geelong, proving that veterans can still shine and potentially influence premiership outcomes.
Bulldogs’ Dilemma
The Western Bulldogs currently sit fifth on the ladder, with impressive performances despite key injuries. However, the club faces a critical decision regarding coach Luke Beveridge. After experiencing mixed results since the 2021 grand final, the board must determine if now is the right time to extend his contract or continue evaluating his leadership amidst fluctuating team performance. Beveridge has stated he won’t coach elsewhere in 2026, leaving the club in a precarious position.
Freo’s Underperformance
Fremantle’s roster is packed with talent; however, their recent display against St Kilda raised eyebrows, managing just 33 points despite having most key players available. Coach Justin Longmuir, who enjoys a supportive atmosphere within the club thanks to his rolling contract, must address the team’s lacklustre offensive efforts, especially in away games where they have faltered significantly this season.
Carlton’s Struggles Against Adelaide
Adelaide’s coach, Matthew Nicks, has found success against Carlton, winning all four encounters during Michael Voss’ tenure. The Crows have consistently outplayed the Blues, demonstrating tactical dominance that has left Carlton unable to assert their usual contest-focused game. This poses questions for both clubs as Adelaide seeks to replicate such success against other teams, while Carlton must resolve their ongoing inconsistencies.
Creativity Sparks Sydney’s Success
Amidst a tumultuous season, Sydney’s coach Dean Cox displayed tactical innovation during a critical match against GWS. Facing injuries and a poor start, Cox shifted veteran defender Joel Hamling into a forward role, resulting in his first-ever goal while helping the Swans secure what could be a transformative win. This clever strategy suggests Cox is gradually finding his footing in his new role following John Longmire’s tenure.
As the season progresses, teams continue to jockey for position, and with the AFL showing no signs of predictability, fans can expect more thrilling moments in the rounds ahead.