Gather Round’s big loser obvious as valiant losses drive surprising grades: AFL Report Card
The second annual Gather Round is officially in the books.
The weekend’s festival of footy provided eventful contests aplenty, and we’ve reviewed all nine of them.
Every team’s performance analysed and graded in foxfooty.com.au’s Round 4 Report Card!
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ADELAIDE CROWS
For the fourth week running, wasteful ball use and stagnant plays around the ground prevented the Crows from making the most of their opportunities. Undoubtedly beaten by the better side in the end, their season is now in turmoil – winless from four games and playing Carlton away in Round 5.
In the votes
Jake Soligo (27 disposals, eight tackles) was the best of the Crows midfielders and will also be their best chance of snaring a Brownlow vote. Izak Rankine (18 disposals, 10 score involvements, one goal) was electric, and could have had an even bigger night had he kicked straight. Mark Keane (23 disposals, 11 intercept possessions, 10 marks) was awesome for the second week in a row in defence, and looks to have grown greatly as a player in 2024.
Room for improvement
The Crows surprisingly beat the Demons in almost every main stat line, with the only two big exceptions their contested marking (lost 9-18) and tackles inside 50 (lost 7-14). The output from their A-grade talent has been the biggest concern this season, with further selection shocks still very much on the table at West Lakes. Every game that goes becomes more important than the last, and polish from their better players is now nothing but a necessity if they are still hopeful of playing finals.
Grade
D+
BRISBANE LIONS
With a matchup that would inevitably bring their first win of the season, Brisbane ticked boxes in their 70-point win over North Melbourne. With all lines firing, the game ended up serving as a chance for players like Joe Daniher, Eric Hipwood and Kai Lohmann to make the most of a plethora of inside 50s. While perhaps a match that is hard to recognise their true output, Chris Fagan’s men did what they needed to do.
In the votes
Joe Daniher (20 disposals, five goals, 12 marks) was the star of the show for the Lions and made the most of an inexperienced Kangaroos defence. Hugh McCluggage (36 disposals, 10 inside 50s) had the largest numbers from the engine room, while Josh Dunkley (31 disposals eight tackles) was rock solid. Lachie Neale (27 disposals, 14 contested possessions) was electric in the first half before being subbed off for ‘ankle awareness’, while Dayne Zorko (28 disposals, one goal) was everywhere.
Room for improvement
It was by no means as poor as it has been in their first three games, but a mini fade in the third quarter showed there is still room for improvement with Brisbane’s random lapses in momentum. Having dominated the first half, the Lions gave up all momentum for a 12-minute period in a showing that mimicked lapses that had previously cost them games in 2024. Their recovery was classy, as we would expect, but it’s still worth noting in a game that otherwise didn’t need many improvements.
Grade
A-
CARLTON
The Blues did it again! Michael Voss’ side won another close game, coming from the clouds late to snatch victory from the Dockers. It wasn’t without controversy including two contentious decisions – a missed touched ball that led to Matt Cottrell’s go-ahead goal before an umpire dissent penalty to Jordan Clark set up Matt Kennedy’s sealer from point-blank range. With it, Carlton remained undefeated at 4-0.
In the votes
Tom De Koning played one of his better games, racking up 16 touches and 32 hit-outs. Jacob Weitering and Brodie Kemp combined for 26 marks as strong pillars in defence. Patrick Cripps (20 touches, one goal, six tackles) was busy throughout the day, while George Hewett (19 disposals, eight clearances, two goal assists) was particularly effective.
Room for improvement
Let’s be real; the Blues should’ve lost this game. They trailed the Dockers almost all day, even though it was always within a couple of kicks, being well beaten in the midfield. While we wanted to see Carlton switch from a stoppage scoring team to one that scores off turnover, the severe drop-off in midfield impact is a slight concern. Hopefully the looming return of Sam Walsh can help resolve it.
Grade
B
COLLINGWOOD
It truly was a tale of two halves for the Pies in Sunday’s meeting with Jack Ginnivan’s Hawks – a game Collingwood escaped with a five-point victory. We saw some of the reigning premiers’ best form in the first half including their scoring from turnover game back in full flight and so much to like. But they faded badly in the second half against a side yet to win a game in some cause for concern for Craig McRae, while Scott Pendlebury suffered a rib injury that caused the champ to get subbed out.
In the votes
Jordan De Goey had his best game for the season, racking up 31 disposals, one goal and seven tackles. Tom Mitchell (30 touches, 10 tackles) was also busy inside the contest,
Josh Daicos (30 touches) looked a class above most and Darcy Cameron (19 possessions, 32 hit-outs) also had some bright moments.
Room for improvement
The second half fade-out was clearly the most alarming area of the game for the reigning premiers as they’ll look to put a more consistent performance together following their Round 5 bye. To sit 2-3 after a horror 0-3 start to the season though isn’t a terrible result, particularly after a tough fixture.
Grade
B
ESSENDON
The ‘edge’ we saw that was integral to Essendon’s barnstorming win over St Kilda in Round 3 wasn’t evident against the Power, who were able to effectively do whatever they pleased with the ball in hand. The Bombers were helpless against Port Adelaide’s devastating on-ball brigade, who torched Brad Scott’s men for all four quarters on Friday night. They’ll be looking to bounce back when they return to Marvel Stadium to play the Western Bulldogs in Round 5.
In the votes
Typically, skipper Zach Merrett (36 disposals, seven clearances, seven inside-50s, five tackles) was Essendon’s best contributor on the night. He didn’t have many companions, but Nic Martin (35 disposals, seven marks) did his best again as the designated ball-user off half-back and Xavier Duursma (26 disposals, four tackles) impressed against his former side.
Room for improvement
Not only did they keep pace, but the Bombers registered more scoring shots than the Power in the first term, but it was all downhill from quarter-time. The Dons were -20 in inside-50s, -9 in clearances, were out-possessed in the contest and were less efficient using the ball than Port Adelaide. Further, the issue defending transition that exposed the Bombers against Sydney reared its head again on Friday. Connor Rozee, Jason Horne-Francis and Zak Butters ran rampant against an Essendon midfield that looked slow in comparison.
Grade
F
FREMANTLE
We would suggest the reaction in a certain western newspaper is a little bit over the top - an umpiring is not the greatest robbery in football history, because they happen in literally every game. Adelaide last year against Sydney was still a more blatant blunder. But we will not dispute that the Dockers should have won this game, clearly controlling it and only having the margin blow out past a kick in the final seconds because Jordan Clark got lippy. It’s a shame that their hard work was undone by something out of their control but that’s just how footy works sometimes.
In the votes
The midfield didn’t do quite enough damage, but a 44-27 clearance win over any team with Patrick Cripps in it is pretty fantastic. The top seven disposal getters on the ground were all Dockers with Caleb Serong (26 disposals, nine clearances), Hayden Young (25 disposals, six clearances) and Andrew Brayshaw (38 disposals) all busy. But a special shoutout to Jeremy Sharp who was the most damaging player on the ground with a goal and 655 metres gained from his 29 disposals.
Room for improvement
As mentioned, it was a lack of damage from the midfield dominance that hurt the Dockers, and it’s a step forward they must take if they’re to truly contend in 2024. As we mentioned the top seven disposal getters on the ground were all theirs - yet those players combined for one goal. Not good enough. Finally, Jordan Clark... mate, we get it. It was a mistake. But you simply can’t swear around, in the direction of, near, or anything close to at an umpire. Especially after a goal, when you can give up a free directly in front.
Grade
B+
GEELONG CATS
The old Cats are back - not just the 2022 ones, but the pre-2022 side who simply always seemed to know what to do in the thrillers. Without much of a midfield, but thanks to a deadly forward line that once again took its chances, Chris Scott’s side sits 4-0 with a fifth win almost certain next week against the Kangaroos at home. Finals are back on the menu.
In the votes
Is Gryan Miers the most underrated player in the AFL? The No.1 player for goal assists since the start of 2023, the Messi of St Mary’s was the best Cat on the ground according to AFL ratings points, with eight score involvements from 22 disposals plus four clearances. Jeremy Cameron (27 disposals, 2.4) was the only man who could stop himself from a bigger bag and when he’s out on a wing, he remains an impossible match-up. Jack Bowes (two goals from 23 disposals) had one of his better games as a Cat while Rhys Stanley was classy late.
Room for improvement
A very quiet night for Tom Hawkins, with just the six disposals and 0.1, as he was kept well in check by Liam Jones. Jhye Clark had 13 disposals in 57% time on ground but had even less impact. Overall, the midfield with its current personnel is doing enough to win games like this one but isn’t good enough to beat the cream of the crop; the Cats are still reliant on the returns of Patrick Dangerfield and Cam Guthrie to become true contenders.
Grade
B+
GOLD COAST SUNS
Things didn’t start promisingly for the Suns at Mount Barker after a fast Giants start, but they were able to regroup and really push a premiership contending GWS outfit for four quarters. To get that close to a team they never ever beat, even with the margin blowing out a bit late, was impressive.
In the votes
Matt Rowell (26 disposals at 89 per cent efficiency, 19 contested possessions, eight clearances and a goal) was terrific again, continuing his blistering start to the 2024 campaign. Sam Flanders was also impressive in a new half-back-flank role, registering 29 disposals of his own at 83 per cent, while the intercepting Mac Andrew (24 disposals and 10 marks) had 16 intercept possessions to three-quarter-time. A shout out to the Academy kids too who showed flashes of future brilliance.
Room for improvement
Despite their admirable showing, Damien Hardwick and his coaching staff will be left lamenting the ease with which GWS was sometimes able to transition through the corridor and deliver to Jesse Hogan or Toby Greene. There were plenty of promising signs, but there were also times Hardwick and Co. were likely left frustratingly scratching their heads. However, unlike the majority of sides GWS has played thus far this season, the Suns forced the Giants wider and longer on more occasions than we’ve come to expect.
Grade
B+
GWS GIANTS
While it started with a splash, the Orange Tsunami we’ve come to fear under Adam Kingsley’s guidance was stemmed somewhat by the plucky Suns on Sunday. Despite the corridor being a frequent option for the Giants, they weren’t always able to transition smoothly against Gold Coast interceptors Charlie Ballard and Mac Andrew, as Hardwick’s men tried to force GWS long or wide at every opportunity.
In the votes
Reliable veteran Stephen Coniglio (27 disposals, 10 inside-50s and two goals) was probably GWS’ best, while captain Toby Greene (17 disposals, five goals) and Jesse Hogan (seven marks and four goals) were instrumental up forward and provided consistent targets inside Gold Coast’s defensive territory.
Room for improvement
The Giants topped the Suns in just about all pertinent statistical categories and it showed for most of the match, yet they couldn’t notch the blowout win we’ve become accustomed to seeing Kingsley’s side deliver against lesser opponents in recent times — and that’s largely due to the Suns’ commendable efforts. They were probably forced long down the line a few more times than they would’ve liked, but again, credit there should go to Gold Coast’s combative defensive structure. They also, at times, struggled to defend the Suns’ counter-attacking movement.
Grade
B+
HAWTHORN
So, so close. Trailing by 38 points at half-time, the Hawks very nearly completed a miracle comeback over Collingwood to close Gather Round, agonisingly falling by five points. Sam Mitchell was proud of his side’s efforts, but ultimately disappointed it didn’t get rewarded in the end with the all-important four points as Hawthorn remains winless on the season at 0-4.
In the votes
Blake Hardwick’s move forward proved a masterstroke, kicking four goals in the second half – including three in the third term alone – to will his side back into the contest and nearly lead it to a huge upset win. Jai Newcombe got back to his best form too with 26 disposals and seven tackles to also have a big influence in turning the game in the second half. Karl Amon (28 touches) and Jack Scrimshaw (22 possessions, nine marks) were also key contributors.
Room for improvement
Starting better, in particular the second term. The Hawks gave up a run of five-straight goals in the second quarter in a period that essentially decided the result in the end. Inconsistency is to be expected from such a young side, but aside from that run, Mitchell should be pleased with how his side performed against the reigning premiers.
Grade
B+
MELBOURNE
Their incredible last fortnight in South Australia could well set up their season, having beaten both Port Adelaide and now Adelaide on foreign turf. While beaten in many stat lines, their aggression and hunt for the football was that of a team who will mix it with the absolute best this season. So many of their leaders stood up on the big stage and should be very proud of their part in Melbourne’s four-week win streak.
In the votes
Clearly best on ground, Christian Petracca (29 disposals, eight clearances, one goal) was in his element across all four quarters. Max Gawn (15 disposals, 39 hitouts) had another big captain’s performance, and is clearly leading this side to great things in 2024. Steven May (19 disposals, nine marks, five spoils) was very good in defence, especially given his quick turnaround from fractured ribs only 12 days beforehand.
Room for improvement
There’ll be nights at the pointy end of the season where kicking 10.18 just isn’t good enough, as they well know. But they’ve been pretty efficient so far in 2024 so we’re not too concerned about this being a returning trend just yet.
Grade
A
NORTH MELBOURNE
In a 2023 Gather Round rematch, unfortunately the Kangaroos couldn’t turn around their fortunes from last year. After losing to the Lions by 75 points last year in Mount Barker, they essentially repeated their fate in a 70-point loss at Norwood Oval. With the start of the third quarter their exception, North were comprehensively beaten in almost every facet. Putting aside Brisbane’s recent form, the matchup was always going to be tough with the high quality players that Brisbane possess.
In the votes
While very unlikely to poll a vote, Charlie Comben (25 disposals, 13 intercept possessions, eight marks) was exceptional in defence. Harry Sheezel (35 disposals, eight rebound 50s) had a lot of the ball in his defensive half, but again is unlikely to poll. Tristan Xerri (41 hitouts, nine disposals, nine tackles) had an enormous first quarter and half, but faded as the game went on.
Room for improvement
In a surprise to no one, it was holes inside defensive 50 that hurt the Kangaroos the most. Allowing 21 marks inside said 50 made winning the game nigh on impossible, with accountability for opponents needing to improve quickly. North Melbourne matched it with Brisbane in the centre clearances, but were smacked 33-22 in clearances around
the ground. With their defensive personnel out of their control, this season will continue to act as a chance to grow for their young side.
Grade
D-
PORT ADELAIDE
After failing to capitalise on a plethora of scoring opportunities against Melbourne last weekend, the Power was efficient in its destruction of Essendon on Friday night, claiming a dominant win as its midfield heroes delivered in spades. Ken Hinkley’s men were able to transition the ball with class and ease against an Essendon side that wasn’t equipped to handle their onslaught. Port Adelaide was also stingy in defence after quarter-time, constricting the Bombers when they tried to counter-attack or kickstart offensive chains.
In the votes
Connor Rozee (36 disposals, 16 contested possessions, seven inside-50s, five clearances and three goals) was nothing short of prolific and he was joined by Jason Horne-Francis (31 disposals, 10 clearances and seven inside-50s) and Zak Butters (26 disposals at 81 per cent efficiency, five clearances and seven tackles) to be the best three players on the ground. Jeremy Finlayson, Darcy Byrne-Jones and Willie Rioli each kicked three goals on the night.
Room for improvement
The Bombers registered more scoring shots than Port in the first quarter, but outside of that, there weren’t many shortcomings worth highlighting in this department. The Power were -17 in the tackles category, but when you’re in possession for most of the game and win by over 11 goals, the opponent tends to have more tackling opportunities.
Grade
A+
RICHMOND
Following up a stirring Easter Sunday victory over Sydney, the Tigers were once again hugely promising despite a narrow defeat to St Kilda in Norwood on Sunday. However, in what was another in a growing list of ‘brave defeats’ in 2024, Adem Yze will be left disappointed that his side couldn’t finish the deal after restricting St Kilda to just one first-half goal — that came with 30 seconds left. Richmond’s counter-attacking transition was a highlight in the first half, as it limited the Saints’ high-powered offensive chains and forced them to be stagnant. Albeit their momentum unravelled in the second half as St Kilda’s offensive game finally got going and proved too strong on a narrow playing arena.
In the votes
Dustin Martin (30 disposals, eight marks, six inside-50s) was tremendous in his return from a calf injury, though after a 20-disposal first half his momentum was halted in the second as the Tigers were overrun. Tim Taranto (28 disposals, seven tackles, six inside-50s) had an equal-game-high 18 contested possessions in a strong showing, while the mercurial Shai Bolton (19 disposals, nine marks, four goals) was typically terrific both in transition and as a pure goal threat. Skipper Toby Nankervis (21 disposals, five marks, seven tackles) and flanker Daniel Rioli (21 disposals at 86 per cent efficiency) also established powerful bodies of work on Sunday.
Room for improvement
The Tigers were neck-and-neck with the Saints in contested possessions (142-140), clearances (35-33) and inside-50s (56-55), but were out-marked convincingly by St Kilda, 119-80, with the Saints +40 in uncontested marks. While uncontested play didn’t get St Kilda far in the first half, it was crucial in the second, as they limited Richmond’s time with ball in hand and were able to dictate the terms of the game as it wore on. After conceding just one goal to half-time, the Tigers surrendered eight in the second half.
Grade
B-
ST KILDA
The Saints achieved their aim of getting back on the winners’ list after a disappointing loss to Essendon in Round 3, but it didn’t come without a disappointing start against Richmond. St Kilda’s ball movement was effectively stifled by the Tigers during the first half of play, and it helped contribute to an early deficit. The narrow field dimensions probably didn’t work in Ross Lyon’s favour, but his side was also subpar from a transition defence perspective in the first half. Things changed completely in the second half, though, as we saw more of the St Kilda identity we’ve come to expect during Ross Lyon’s second term as coach — blistering transition movement and stingy defence, led by Callum Wilkie.
In the votes
Jack Steele (33 disposals and 10 tackles) looked near his best during a hard-nosed midfield effort. Wilkie had 17 disposals and five marks, with three of them coming during a stirring final stanza effort to help his side over the line. Riley Bonner (24 disposals at 92 efficiency and a goal) responded after a clanger-filled showing against Essendon.
Room for improvement
In the first half, the Saints were -3 in inside-50s, -3 in tackles and -6 in clearances as Richmond did damage in transition after causing a turnover or creating an intercept in St Kilda’s offensive territory. The Saints weren’t near their best defending the transitioning Tigers, nor were they effective going inside 50 themselves — either squandering scoring opportunities or butchering the crucial kick going inside Richmond’s territory.
Grade
B
SYDNEY SWANS
After a scare during the first three quarters, Sydney walked away winners at a beautiful Mount Barker Oval over a fighting West Coast. Trailing the Eagles at half-time, there was certainly some nerves in the Swans coaches’ box. However, a final quarter win kicking into the wind put the chances of a shock upset to bed. The victory puts John Longmire’s men back on the winners list, after a surprise loss to Richmond in Round 3.
In the votes
Errol Gulden (27 disposals, two goals, 773m gained) provided dash all day for the Swans, with his work rate a level above most. Isaac Heeney (26 disposals, two goals, four goal assists) was once again everywhere, and is every chance to be leading the Brownlow Medal at this stage of the season. Ruckman Brodie Grundy (20 disposals, 31 hitouts, eight clearances) made the most of a favourable matchup, and also looked good.
Room for improvement
There were several uncharacteristic Sydney takeaways from the match, with one that stood out their failure to bring the ball to ground in a contest. The Eagles managed 15 contested marks, which towered over their four for the match. Thee Swans were also matched for inside 50s and tackles by the Eagles, and beaten at the centre clearance 16-12. Jeremy McGovern’s impact was sizeable, and nullifying intercept defenders in the future might allow the ball on the ground in their forward 50 more often.
Grade
C+
WEST COAST
Undoubtedly their best performance so far in 2024, Adam Simpson’s men were a genuine threat for three quarters and especially in the second term – kicking 5.6 (36) to give themselves a five-point lead at half-time. The emergence of Harley Reid was one to behold, with the 18-year-old influential in the Eagles’ chances of a shock victory. While they didn’t walk away with the win, all 23 players should be very proud of their efforts.
In the votes
Elliot Yeo (28 disposals, nine inside 50s, eight tackles) was the most prominent of the Eagles players, with his body seeming fully fit. Liam Duggan (30 disposals, 12 marks) had plenty of the ball, but turned it over more than preferred. Jeremy McGovern (26 disposals, eight rebound 50s) was rock solid in defence, and may sneak in a vote. Jake Waterman (18 disposals, two goals) was their best up forward and deserves praise for his performance.
Room for improvement
Perhaps it was on the back of a more aggressive game plan in defence, but the Eagles let a noticeable number of balls get out the back of their last line of defence. While they stood tall in the centre clearances, the Swans doubled West Coast’s number of stoppage clearances with 32 clearances to 16. Under the magnifying glass next week will also be their allowance of players like Gulden and McInerney running freely off half-back and through the middle of the ground.
Grade
B+
WESTERN BULLDOGS
One of footy’s great hoodoos continued with the Bulldogs now 3-18 against Geelong since the 2009 finals, and one of those wins was in the last round last year when the Cats had the cue in the rack. While there were flashes of growth in terms of a defensive system Luke Beveridge’s men fell just short of completing the comeback, unable to stop the 2022 premiers’ most damaging weapons.
In the votes
Good chance the Doggies get more Brownlow votes out of this game than the Cats, with Marcus Bontempelli (35 disposals, 10 tackles, seven clearances and a goal) and Tom Liberatore (35 disposals, nine tackles, 19 clearances and a goal) both stupidly good against an understrength opposing midfield. Throw in Adam Treloar’s 37 disposals and you had a hell of a start; unfortunately, 10 teammates combined couldn’t match their 109-disposal haul, the midfielders left again doing plenty of work for little reward.
Room for improvement
The Dogs won most of the key statistical areas and had great impact from their midfielders; they just couldn’t do enough damage, nor stop the Cats’ stars like Jeremy Cameron and Gryan Miers from hurting them. Liam Jones stood up in defence but he didn’t have enough help and once again we’re left with a side that just can’t seem to match the absolute best, whether it’s because of the bottom 6-8 players not being good enough, or the system being wrong, or whatever it may be.
Grade
C+