The Joy of Six
… And it took only one more week for the AFLW fixture to be thrown into more semi-chaos by COVID, meaning that the scheduled Brisbane v Gold Coast cross-state match I highlighted last week did not eventuate…
Instead, the Lions played host to Carlton on a Tuesday night and won easily by about six goals. This catapulted them up off the bottom of the ladder and into the top six, and possibly set this year’s finalists for good – i.e. they’re looking like the same six teams that made the finals last year. With the caveat that the Western Bulldogs have still only played one match so far, the top six are already looking a clear step ahead of the rest on most of the major statistics (see table below).
Fremantle and Melbourne in particular are both looking very strong in several areas. Both have average differentials with their opponents so far of around 30 points, eight scoring shots, ten contested possessions, and over nine inside 50s per game. Adelaide – while on top of the ladder – has generally not been quite as strong in these areas, and holds top spot largely through keeping scoring low. They have however played tougher opponents.
Collingwood – not yet defeated but not yet convincing?
You could argue perhaps Collingwood are a step further back again, as they have only broken about even in the inside 50 battle. Their defence has been more of a reason for their healthy percentage, ranking second behind the Crows for opposition points per inside 50.
However, they still have the highest uncontested possession differential to date, suggesting that they have still had the majority of ball control in their matches, even if not control of the territory. We should get a better read on where the Magpies are at when they (hopefully) host the Dockers tomorrow night.
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