AFL Round 12 Review: Collingwood Firm as Flag Favourites, Adelaide Quietly Take Third
Round 12 of the 2024 AFL season has provided a clearer picture of the premiership race, with Collingwood solidifying their position as flag favourites, while Adelaide has quietly climbed into third place on the ladder.
In a significant development for the rugby league community, Wigan Warriors have officially announced the appointment of Shaun Edwards as the new General
🏆 Collingwood: The Flag Favourites
Despite a challenging season marked by injuries to key players such as Scott Pendlebury, Jordan De Goey, and Brody Mihocek, Collingwood has demonstrated remarkable resilience. In their Round 12 clash against the Western Bulldogs, the Magpies showcased their depth and adaptability. Lachie Schultz emerged as a standout, kicking three goals and taking six marks inside 50, signaling his growing influence in the forward line. However, concerns linger regarding their fourth-quarter performances, having scored only 3.6 in the last three final terms, compared to their opponents’ 13.5.
Head coach Craig McRae’s leadership continues to be a stabilizing force for the team, guiding them through adversity and keeping them atop the ladder.
Adelaide: Quietly Climbing the Ladder
Adelaide’s journey this season has been marked by inconsistency, but their performance in Round 12 against Hawthorn has been a turning point. Despite a challenging first half, the Crows rallied in the second half, with Mitch Hinge delivering a standout performance, accumulating 31 disposals, nine marks, and six rebound 50s. Matt Crouch also contributed significantly with 35 disposals, seven tackles, and seven clearances.
This victory has propelled Adelaide into third place on the ladder, quietly positioning them as serious contenders for the finals. Their ability to perform under pressure and the emergence of key players suggest they could be a formidable force in the latter half of the season.
Round 12 Highlights
Collingwood vs. Western Bulldogs: Despite missing several key players, Collingwood’s depth was evident as they secured a crucial win. Lachie Schultz’s performance was a highlight, showcasing the team’s adaptability.
Adelaide vs. Hawthorn: A resilient second-half performance led by Mitch Hinge and Matt Crouch saw Adelaide secure a vital victory, moving them into third place on the ladder.
Melbourne vs. Fremantle: Melbourne’s struggle continued as they suffered a heavy defeat, raising questions about their finals aspirations.
Port Adelaide vs. Carlton: Carlton’s upset win highlighted their potential, with Tom De Koning’s dominant performance in the ruck being a standout.
Ladder Update
Position Team Wins Losses Draws
1 Collingwood 10 2 0
2 Brisbane 9 3 0
3 Adelaide 8 4 0
4 Port Adelaide 7 5 0
5 Carlton 7 5 0
6 Western Bulldogs 6 6 0
7 Hawthorn 6 6 0
8 Richmond 5 7 0
As the season progresses, Collingwood’s consistency and depth position them as strong premiership contenders, while Adelaide’s quiet ascent into third place underscores their potential to make a significant impact in the finals race.
Leave a Reply