The stage was set for the clash of titans on the weekend as the AFL witnessed heart-thumping action, with the Blues, Bombers, and Cats registering crucial victories in the 17th round.
The Carlton Blues, en route to a meteoric rise, unleashed their dominance against Fremantle Dockers, delivering a comprehensive 53-point victory at Perth Stadium. The Blues put up an 8-goal winning streak in the first half to assert a 14.14 (98) to 6.9 (45) triumph in front of an audience of 49,469.
The Carlton forward duo, Harry McKay and Charlie Curnow, led from the front with three goals each. Sam Walsh delivered a power-packed performance with 23 disposals in the first half, wrapping up the game with 32 possessions. Carlton skipper, Patrick Cripps, maintained his stronghold over the game, ending with 29 disposals and a record 10 clearances.
Former Docker players, Adam Cerra and Blake Acres, further spiced up the contest with their critical contributions. However, the victory came at a significant cost as Matthew Kennedy and Mitch McGovern were carried off the field due to injuries. But the blues are back with a bang, rejuvenating their flag hopes with a winning streak of three games, now eyeing a spot in the finals.
On the flip side, Fremantle’s poor run continued as they dropped to the 14th spot on the ladder. The Dockers, however, showed their class in hitouts, registering 21-4 in the opening term. Still, Carlton’s aggression at ground level ensured a 42-35 win in the clearances and a 60-42 inside the 50m count, demonstrating their thirst for victory.
Meanwhile, Essendon Bombers upgraded their game a notch, marking their sixth triple-figure score of the season with an 18-point victory over Adelaide Crows.
, with his triple goals, and Zach Merrett, continuing his magnificent campaign, propelled the Bombers to fifth place on the ladder.
The Bombers controlled the game’s speed from the beginning, utilizing their midfield dominance to register goals from 10 different players. Yet, the victory was marred by an injury to defender Jordan Ridley, and Andrew Phillips faces potential scrutiny over a high bump on opponent Reilly O’Brien.
Lastly, Geelong Cats continued their winning streak, overcoming Kangaroos, which sets up an exciting clash with reigning champions Geelong in the next round. AFL Round 17 was an absolute spectacle, illustrating the contest’s electrifying nature, intensifying the competition for the coveted top eight spots. The weekend was all about execution, strategy, and the unwavering will to claim victory, setting the tone for the following rounds.
