AFL Gather Round Highlights

In the AFL's Gather Round, several teams demonstrated their resilience and tenacity, proving that they are not to be underestimated. Brisbane, Geelong, and Collingwood, along with Port Adelaide, showed that their experience and determination remain formidable.

Brisbane, the reigning premiers, have become known for their composure when trailing. In a recent match at Norwood against the Bulldogs, they were down by 38 points early in the third quarter. Despite a slow start, Eric Hipwood, who has been thrust into a leading role following Joe Daniher’s retirement, made a significant impact. After a quiet first half, Hipwood intercepted a kick-in and scored a goal, igniting a streak of nine consecutive goals for the Lions. His performance was pivotal, with five goals and ten score involvements, showcasing his versatility and leadership.

Hipwood’s resurgence allowed Brisbane's smaller forwards, such as Zac Bailey and Callum Ah Chee, to thrive. Bailey played one of his best games, while Ah Chee continued his consistent form. Logan Morris also looked more comfortable, indicating that the Lions are adapting well to the loss of Daniher. Coach Chris Fagan will be pleased to see Hipwood stepping up, as this will be crucial for their season.

Adelaide, another team touted as a potential premiership contender, faced a tough challenge against Geelong. The Crows dominated the first half, building a five-goal lead. However, Geelong, a battle-hardened side, refused to give in. Despite Adelaide’s statistical dominance, they only led by 12 points at halftime. Darcy Fogarty was scoring for the Crows, but Patrick Dangerfield was a constant threat for Geelong.

Dangerfield, known for his ability to carry his team, kept Geelong in contention through three quarters. In the final quarter, he found a partner in Jeremy Cameron, who joined him in turning the tide. This match highlighted the importance of finishing off strong opponents, a lesson that both Hawthorn and Adelaide will need to take to heart as they continue their seasons.

In a stunning display of skill and determination, Geelong's veteran duo of Dangerfield and Cameron showcased their prowess in the fourth quarter against Adelaide. The experienced pair orchestrated an impressive comeback, combining for eight goals, five of which were scored in the final term. This performance sealed one of the most memorable victories of the Chris Scott era, reminding everyone why Geelson has been a dominant force for so long.

For the young Adelaide side, this match served as a crucial learning experience. It highlighted the importance of finishing off opponents early. There will come a time when they are the seasoned team that capitalizes on the mistakes of their younger rivals, but for now, it was a valuable lesson in resilience and composure.

Meanwhile, Port Adelaide defied all odds in their Gather Round finale against Hawthorn. Despite widespread skepticism and pre-game chatter surrounding Ken Hinkley, Jack Ginnivan, and James Sicily, the Power emerged victorious. Many had written off Port, predicting a dominant win for the suddenly favored Hawks. However, the strong bond between the players and their coach, Ken Hinkley, played a significant role in their unexpected triumph.

At the heart of Port's resurgence was Zak Butters, a fiercely competitive player who sets the tone for the team. His return from injury coincided with Port's improved form, underscoring his importance. While Connor Rozee may wear the captain's armband and Jason Horne-Francis might be the standout talent, it is Butters' relentless drive and fiery spirit that make Port a formidable opponent.

Zak Butters' Impact

Zak Butters: The Heart and Soul of Port Adelaide's Resurgence

Despite his modest 181cm frame, Zak Butters plays with the confidence and presence of a much larger man, bringing an undeniable energy that transforms Port Adelaide's entire playing style.

When Butters takes the field, there's a noticeable shift in the team's demeanor—they play with greater intensity and aggression, feeding off his relentless competitive spirit.

Against Hawthorn, Butters orchestrated Port's dominance as they built a staggering 71-point advantage by midway through the second quarter. His impact was felt everywhere—extracting the ball from congestion, delivering precise kicks inside 50, and mentally unsettling Hawthorn's players with his unapologetic trash-talking.

His influence extended beyond personal statistics, unlocking the potential of teammates Connor Rozee and Jason Horne-Francis. Rozee thrived in his halfback role, while Horne-Francis dominated the final quarter when Hawthorn mounted their comeback attempt.

While critics have been quick to dismiss Port Adelaide for their premiership drought under Ken Hinkley, writing them off would be premature. With a talent-rich roster led by Butters at his peak, Port remains a formidable contender.

The Quiet Rise of Collingwood

Similarly, Collingwood has silently rebuilt their season after a disappointing opening round. Their recent victory over Sydney pushed their record to an impressive 4-1, despite missing key players like Dan Houston and Jordan De Goey.

The narrative surrounding Collingwood has focused heavily on their league-leading average age of 28.5—significantly older than their nearest competitors Brisbane, GWS, and Carlton (all at 26.4). Critics have labeled them too old and slow, but this perspective overlooks the timeless quality of their veterans.

Steele Sidebottom exemplifies this ageless versatility. Since bursting onto the scene as a teenage goal-kicking sensation in the 2008 TAC Cup Grand Final, Sidebottom has continuously reinvented himself—transforming from a premiership forward in 2010 to an elite midfielder, winger, defender, and tagger throughout his remarkable 15-year career.

Meanwhile, Scott Pendlebury, the team's oldest player, continues to defy age with his elegant, effective playing style that seems impervious to time's passage.

Collingwood's Resilient Stars

When the game demands excellence, Sidebottom consistently rises to the occasion. His performance against the Swans was nothing short of vintage brilliance, collecting 28 possessions and influencing the scoreboard an impressive 13 times.

Gliding across the field alongside him was the evergreen Pendlebury, whose 408-game career has only enhanced his ability to make the difficult look routine, gathering 26 touches and six clearances with his trademark elegance.

Critics pointing to Collingwood's age demographic conveniently overlook their most dazzling talent - 22-year-old Nick Daicos, arguably the competition's premier player who continues to elevate his game to extraordinary heights.

Despite persistent attempts to write their football obituary, this Magpie outfit shows remarkable resilience. The veterans remain elite contributors while their young superstar blazes forward, making it abundantly clear this team has no intention of fading quietly from premiership contention.

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