AFL Ladder Round 20 2024

Carlton vs Port Adelaide (Marvel Stadium, July 26)

Port Adelaide emerged victorious in a tough clash against Carlton, winning 11.13 (79) to 9.11 (65). The game was closely contested, with both teams showing periods of dominance. Carlton started strong, building an early lead, but Port Adelaide gradually clawed back, showcasing their resilience and strategic play. The Power’s defense tightened up in the second half, limiting Carlton’s scoring opportunities. Key players like Travis Boak and Connor Rozee were instrumental in Port Adelaide’s comeback, providing crucial midfield strength and scoring. In the final quarter, Port Adelaide pulled away, capitalizing on crucial errors from Carlton and sealing the win with accurate goalkicking. This victory bolstered Port Adelaide’s position in the top eight, highlighting their potential as serious contenders for the finals.

North Melbourne vs Geelong (Blundstone Arena, July 27)

Geelong secured a dominant 16.10 (106) to 10.6 (66) win over North Melbourne, reinforcing their strong position in the league standings. The Cats controlled the game from the outset, leveraging their superior ball movement and defensive pressure. North Melbourne struggled to contain Geelong’s forwards, with Jeremy Cameron and Tom Hawkins proving particularly effective in front of goal. Geelong’s midfield, led by Patrick Dangerfield, consistently won clearances and provided quality delivery to their forwards. Despite a spirited effort from North Melbourne in the third quarter, where they managed to close the gap slightly, Geelong’s experience and composure shone through. The Cats’ ability to maintain pressure and capitalize on scoring opportunities was a key factor in their comprehensive victory, keeping them firmly in the race for a top-four finish.

Gold Coast vs Brisbane Lions (People First Stadium, July 27)

The Brisbane Lions claimed a crucial win against Gold Coast, finishing 13.15 (93) to 9.11 (65). The match was marked by Brisbane’s strong second-half performance, where they pulled away from the Suns after a relatively even first half. Key forwards Joe Daniher and Charlie Cameron played pivotal roles, combining for several goals that kept Brisbane ahead. Gold Coast showed resilience, with Touk Miller and Matt Rowell providing standout performances, but they were ultimately unable to match the Lions’ firepower. Brisbane’s midfield, led by Lachie Neale, controlled the game, ensuring a steady supply of the ball to their forwards. This victory was significant for Brisbane, keeping them in contention for a top-four spot and demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure as the season heads towards the finals.

St Kilda vs Essendon (Marvel Stadium, July 27)

St Kilda delivered a comprehensive 17.6 (108) to 8.7 (55) victory over Essendon, showcasing a well-rounded team performance. The Saints dominated from the start, with their forward line, including Tim Membrey and Max King, proving too strong for Essendon’s defense. The game highlighted St Kilda’s ability to pressure opponents and capitalize on turnovers, which they did effectively throughout the match. Essendon struggled to gain momentum, often finding themselves on the back foot against a well-organized St Kilda side. The Saints’ midfield, led by Jack Steele and Brad Crouch, controlled the tempo of the game, ensuring that Essendon had limited opportunities to score. This win was crucial for St Kilda, helping them maintain their position in the middle of the ladder and keeping their finals hopes alive.

Melbourne vs GWS Giants (MCG, July 27)

GWS Giants secured a narrow 13.7 (85) to 12.11 (83) victory over Melbourne in a thrilling contest. The game was closely fought, with both teams exchanging leads multiple times. Melbourne’s Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver were instrumental in keeping their team competitive, but the Giants’ resilience and tactical nous ultimately proved decisive. GWS’s Toby Greene and Jesse Hogan were key contributors, both in terms of scoring and setting up play. The final quarter saw intense pressure from both sides, but the Giants managed to hold on to their slender lead, despite a late surge from Melbourne. This win was a significant boost for GWS, reaffirming their credentials as a strong contender for the finals, while Melbourne was left to rue missed opportunities in front of goal.

Fremantle vs West Coast (Optus Stadium, July 27)

Fremantle delivered a commanding 17.8 (110) to 11.9 (75) victory over West Coast, dominating the local derby. The Dockers were in control for most of the game, with strong performances from their midfield and forward lines. Andrew Brayshaw and Nat Fyfe were standout players, providing leadership and skill that West Coast struggled to counter. The Eagles were competitive in the first half, but Fremantle’s superior fitness and tactical execution saw them pull away in the second half. This win was crucial for Fremantle as they push for a finals berth, demonstrating their growing confidence and cohesion as a team. For West Coast, the loss highlighted ongoing challenges in defense and consistency, issues they will need to address in the remaining rounds.

Collingwood vs Richmond (MCG, July 28)

Collingwood secured a convincing 14.9 (93) to 9.13 (67) victory over Richmond, bolstering their position in the top eight. The Magpies showcased a balanced and disciplined game plan, effectively neutralizing Richmond’s attacking threats. Key players like Brody Mihocek and Jordan De Goey were instrumental in Collingwood’s forward line, while their defense, led by Darcy Moore, kept Richmond’s scoring in check. The Tigers struggled to break through Collingwood’s well-organized defense and were often forced into low-percentage scoring attempts. This win was a statement of intent from Collingwood, reaffirming their credentials as a serious contender in the finals race. Richmond, meanwhile, faced further questions about their form and consistency as they aim to secure a finals spot.

Sydney vs Western Bulldogs (SCG, July 28)

Sydney edged out Western Bulldogs 12.14 (86) to 11.10 (76) in a closely contested match. The game was marked by high intensity and strong defensive play from both teams. Sydney’s forward line, led by Lance Franklin, provided crucial goals at key moments, while their midfield, including Luke Parker and Josh Kennedy, won critical clearances. The Bulldogs, led by Marcus Bontempelli, fought hard throughout the game, but Sydney’s ability to withstand pressure and capitalize on scoring opportunities was decisive. This victory was important for Sydney, helping them maintain their position near the top of the ladder, while the Bulldogs were left to reflect on missed opportunities and areas for improvement.

Adelaide vs Hawthorn (Adelaide Oval, July 28)

Hawthorn secured a dominant 20.13 (133) to 9.13 (67) victory over Adelaide, continuing their strong form in the latter part of the season. The Hawks controlled the game from start to finish, with a particularly strong showing from their forward line. Players like Luke Breust and Mitch Lewis were crucial, scoring multiple goals and applying pressure to Adelaide’s defense. The Crows struggled to match Hawthorn’s intensity and skill, particularly in the midfield, where the Hawks consistently won contested possessions and clearances. This win was significant for Hawthorn as they push towards a potential finals berth, showcasing their growing confidence and cohesion under coach Sam Mitchell.