Although there is no denying that it was a great game and battle between two evenly matched sides. I don't agree with the notion that the top 3-4 sides are WAY ahead of the rest at present. Perhaps in finals experience yes, naturally, given that recent history has seen these sides continuously featuring in finals football. But in over all quality, no. I actually think it's quite the opposite, that is, the top few are closer to the pack than they have been for a few years.AstuteTiger said:
IMO none of the current top four hold the aura of invincibility and intimidation that Geelong and Collingwood did at their peak over the past 5 years.
Geelong, though still very solid, are showing signs of a gradual decline, with periods of inconsistency starting to creep in. In summary, past their peak.
Hawthorn are WAY overrated with the media . Yes their first 22 are very good, but gee do they struggle for depth outside of this. And as Richmond have proven in their last two meetings, Hawthorn can be fragile.
Fremantle are solid, but again just don't seem to have that aura of invincibility and intimidation. They will be desperate to find replacements for Pavlich and Sandelands to keep their momentum flowing in coming seasons.
Sydney IMO, with their best 22 on the park are by far the best of the 4, but just look tired and are suffering with injuries. This of course leads us into the question of how long are they able to maintain a high ladder position, given the age and physical condition of some of their most influential players?
All in all this actually gives me confidence that there is a ripe opportunity for the improving sides, such as Richmond North Melbourne & Port Adelaide (or any other unexpected smokies) to affect a rapid changing of the guard over the next two seasons if things continue on their current trajectory.
