St.Kilda secured a tight win against the lowly Dockers on Friday night. In a game marred by errors and poor disposal, St.Kilda burst out of the blocks and then held off a late Fremantle challenge.
In an upset North Melbourne bounced back into the eight after surprising league leaders Hawthorn. The loss sees the Hawks drift back to third place and leaves the Cats clear on top of the ladder. North continue their uneven form, but show they can perform when switched on.
In another upset, the Tigers travelled to Port Adelaide and left with the 4 points. Controlling the game from early on, Richmond powered to a five goal lead before allowing Port to almost reel them in, in the last 10 minutes. The Tiges have a sniff at finals action after the win but Port can kiss their season goodbye.
Geelong have lifted a gear in the last couple of weeks and totally destroyed the woeful Eagles on their home turf. A 135 point drubbing highlighted the gap between the top and bottom teams clearly. Geelong are warming into the season ominously and look headed for back to back premierships.
Brisbane fought off a determined Adelaide in a tight match at the Gabba. It was a must win game for Adelaide who have now lost touch with the top 4 and face sinking further with the prowling Cats next up.
Still without Bradshaw and Lappin, Brisbane are formidable finals contenders this season.
Sydney have consolidated a top 4 position by comfortably accounting for the Demons. The Swans are very consistent and with the return of Barry Hall and Nick Malceski they are very hard to beat.
Essendon have completed the double against the Blues, running away with a 35 point victory. Carlton have left the 8 quicker than they entered it, and would just be making up finals numbers if they did manage to sneak in. It is very doubtful, they leak far too many goals against all opposition.
Collingwood brought their A-Game to tackle the classy Bulldogs but fell short by a couple of kicks. In an exciting matchup, the Dogs gradually took control as the game evolved. The win gives the Doggies second place on the ladder and another step toward a premiership place.
