The biggest talking points from the first round of the 2024 AFL season

The opening round of the 2024 AFL season did not disappoint, with some clubs facing tough questions and others celebrating strong starts to their campaigns. Here are the key talking points from each game of round one:

1. Injury concerns for Richmond

Despite a close five-point loss to Carlton, Richmond showed great character in the face of adversity. The injury to Josh Gibcus is a significant blow for the Tigers, who will need to regroup and adjust their lineup. Adem Yze will be looking to players like Dylan Grimes and Nick Vlastuin to step up in Gibcus’ absence.

ABC player of the year votes:
3. Patrick Cripps (Blues)
2. Nic Newman (Blues)
1. Nick Vlastuin (Tigers)

2. Collingwood’s defensive struggles

Craig McRae will need to address Collingwood’s defensive issues quickly after a tough loss to Sydney. The Swans’ midfield trio of Chad Warner, Errol Gulden, and Isaac Heeney caused problems for the Magpies, who struggled to contain their forward line.

ABC player of the year votes:
3. Isaac Heeney (Swans)
2. Chad Warner (Swans)
1. Errol Gulden (Swans)

3. Essendon’s midfield success

Brad Scott’s young midfielders shone in Essendon’s win against Hawthorn, with players like Archie Perkins and Sam Durham impressing in the center. The Bombers’ ability to score from stoppages was key to their victory.

ABC player of the year votes:
3. Archie Perkins (Bombers)
2. Zach Merrett (Bombers)
1. Jake Stringer (Bombers)

4. Promising signs for North Melbourne

Despite a loss to GWS, North Melbourne showed promise with a strong performance from their new recruits. Colby McKercher and Harry Sheezel impressed, giving fans hope for the season ahead.

ABC player of the year votes:
3. Jesse Hogan (Giants)
2. Tom Green (Giants)
1. Sam Taylor (Giants)

5. Geelong’s new hero

Ollie Dempsey was a standout player for Geelong in a close match against St Kilda. Dempsey’s performance, along with goals from Jeremy Cameron and Patrick Dangerfield, helped the Cats secure the win.

ABC player of the year votes:
3. Patrick Dangerfield (Cats)
2. Jeremy Cameron (Cats)
1. Ollie Dempsey (Cats)

6. Matt Rowell’s dominance

Matt Rowell put on a stellar performance for Gold Coast, showcasing his ability in the midfield with 20 contested possessions and 10 tackles. Rowell’s impressive play was a highlight in the Suns’ win over Adelaide.

ABC player of the year votes:
3. Matt Rowell (Suns)
2. Noah Anderson (Suns)
1. Jordan Dawson (Crows)

7. Clayton Oliver’s return

Clayton Oliver impressed in Melbourne’s victory over the Bulldogs, showing his on-field brilliance once again. Oliver’s journey back to the AFL has been inspiring, with his teammates providing support and guidance along the way.

ABC player of the year votes:
3. Christian Petracca (Demons)
2. Clayton Oliver (Demons)
1. Max Gawn (Demons)

8. Port Adelaide’s new recruits shine

Port Adelaide’s trade gamble paid off with strong performances from Ivan Soldo, Brandon Zerk-Thatcher, and Esava Ratugolea in their win over West Coast. The Power will be looking to build on this success in the coming weeks.

ABC player of the year votes:
TBD

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