AFL Round-Up: St Kilda’s ceiling rises once more, Geelong finally looks like themselves, and Fremantle’s season is in risk.
Concerns are rising in the western region for the struggling Dockers, as Geelong’s awakening in their recent game against Sydney suggests a potential turnaround for the Cats. Meanwhile, St Kilda continues to impress, remaining a sensation in the AFL. However, the highlight of the upcoming round is the anticipation of two midweek blockbusters.
Welcome to the AFL Round-Up, where we analyze the events of the week.
Fremantle’s performance in the 2023 season has been disappointing, with the team struggling to recapture the form that made them a premiership threat in mid-2022. Tactical concerns are evident, as the Dockers rank middle of the pack in various metrics, highlighting issues in ball movement and offensive execution. Distracted by subplots, including incidents like Rory Lobb’s situation, Fremantle needs a tactical and mental reset to avoid reaching a point of no return in the season.
Geelong’s recent dominant performance against Sydney suggests a potential shift in their strategy. The Cats, previously engaged in what seems like an extended preseason, displayed a more complete and fully-formed version, dominating Sydney in a decisive victory. Notable performances from players like Max Holmes, Brad Close, and Gryan Miers, along with a resurgent Tom Hawkins, contributed to Geelong’s re-emergence.
St Kilda continues to lead the AFL ladder, showcasing a suffocating defensive style attributed to the influence of returning coach Ross Lyon. Despite initial concerns about injuries, the Saints have exceeded expectations, and aspirations for a top-four finish are becoming more realistic. St Kilda’s combination of structure, tactics, and relentless effort under Lyon’s guidance has propelled them to success, and the team remains a force to be reckoned with as they aim for further improvement.
As the AFL season progresses, these storylines set the stage for intriguing midweek blockbusters and further developments in the performances of Fremantle, Geelong, and St Kilda.
