By Ajit Alister
3:23 PM Tues 21 July, 2009
AFL Footy action is starting to gear up with the battle for the final positions in the top 8 getting hot.
Essendon dropped a crucial game against the Western Bulldogs, with their final 8 spot not yet secure it was a must win game. The Doggies however, showed that they are going to be genuine contenders by posting a 33 point win to maintain their top 4 position.
A changing of the guard took place when Carlton out ran Sydney to record their 3rd straight victory by a margin of 61 points. The Blues only need to win 3 out of their last 6 games to make their first finals appearance in 7 years. The Swans however will miss out on the finals for the first time under coach Paul Roos.
Geelong was out to make amends after 2 losses in a row when they took on Melbourne. With the return of all their main stars the Cats were too good and finished with a comfortable 46 point victory.
Fremantle put in a hearty effort against the Brisbane Lions who were making the longest road trip in footy, but came up short in the end. In a low scoring affair the Lions managed to get the win by 15 points.
Hawthon showed why they are the reigning premiers and kept their finals hopes alive, knocking off Collingwood by 45 points. Port Adelaide also stayed in the race defeating West Coast by 36 points. The Eagles season is over and will be looking to blood some young talent for the future.
The Kangaroos and Tigers played out the season’s first draw. For a game that had no bearing on the finals it was played with a lot of passion and sprit with many playing for their careers. The result has sparked further debate as to whether extra time should be introduced in the regular season.
The St Kilda juggernaut continued to roll on smashing fellow contenders Adelaide by 57 points. After 16 rounds the Saints are still undefeated and are now red hot favourites for the flag.
This week’s “Match of the Round” see traditional rivals Carlton take on Collingwood in what should be a very hard fought and spiteful game.
*This week’s “Weird or Wonderful” photo - "Look what I learnt at Ballet"
