North Melbourne Shows Glimmers Against Swans, Lions Survive Carlton Scare

North Melbourne showed strong midfield play against Sydney Swans with more inside-50 entries, but still lost. Brisbane Lions narrowly beat Carlton after a tense finish.
By Newsroom | Sports, AFL |

Kangaroos' Midfield Push Not Enough for Victory

North Melbourne showed flashes of renewed vigour in their clash against Sydney Swans at Marvel Stadium today. Despite a determined effort, the Kangaroos ultimately fell short. The Roos' midfield game was strong, evidenced by their dominance in clearances and a higher number of inside-50 entries (20 to Sydney's 13). Key contributors for North included Jack Darling and Tristan Xerri, who each kicked two goals, alongside majors from Cam Zurhaar, Zane Duursma, and O’Sullivan. Possession leaders for North were Luke Davies-Uniake (13), Finn O’Sullivan (nine), and Luke Parker (eight).

AFL Saturday LIVE: Kangas ‘spoiling for an upset’, 30 years since club’s glory days North find spark against Swans - 1

Sydney's scoring was notably reliant on turnovers from their defensive half. The Swans' goals came from Logan McDonald (two), Isaac Heeney, Hayden McLean, and Joel Amartey. Standouts for Sydney included Nick Blakey (eight possessions) and Dane Rampe (seven).

AFL Saturday LIVE: Kangas ‘spoiling for an upset’, 30 years since club’s glory days North find spark against Swans - 2

Lions Endure Tense Quarter Against Carlton

In other Saturday action, the Brisbane Lions managed to secure a win despite a fierce resurgence from Carlton. The Blues delivered a "season-best" performance that put the reigning premiers under significant pressure during a critical quarter. Reports describe a "sh*thouse quarter" and an "unthinkable blitz" from Carlton, though Brisbane ultimately held on.

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AFL Saturday LIVE: Kangas ‘spoiling for an upset’, 30 years since club’s glory days North find spark against Swans - 3

Bulldogs Snatch Thriller Over Port Adelaide

The Western Bulldogs secured a dramatic victory against Port Adelaide at the Adelaide Oval. A late, match-winning point from Harvey Gallagher proved decisive in a tight contest, snapping a four-game losing streak for the Bulldogs. The match was described as a "classic" with a "chaotic ending."

AFL Saturday LIVE: Kangas ‘spoiling for an upset’, 30 years since club’s glory days North find spark against Swans - 4

Broader AFL Landscape: Team News and Club Initiatives

Amidst the weekend's games, team selections were also a focus. The Melbourne Demons see a significant player return after a 259-day absence, while the Adelaide Crows have made two changes to their lineup. In further news, a former Swan has been appointed as the first-ever Irish coach in a "huge honour." The AFLW Draft saw a notable event with eight Academy stars joining the Gold Coast Suns.

Read More: Sydney Swans win against North Melbourne, aim for top AFL spot

Club-specific initiatives are also being highlighted. The Sydney Swans are promoting their "Sydney Swans Institute," an initiative focused on personal and team development extending beyond the game itself. The North Melbourne Football Club is also engaged in promotional activities with partners, offering member benefits related to vehicle purchases and travel vouchers for attending home games.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Did North Melbourne beat Sydney Swans today?
No, North Melbourne did not win against Sydney Swans at Marvel Stadium today. While the Kangaroos showed strong midfield play and had more entries into their attacking half, they ultimately lost the game.
Q: How did Brisbane Lions perform against Carlton?
The Brisbane Lions won against Carlton but faced a significant challenge. Carlton had a strong performance in one quarter, putting the Lions under pressure before Brisbane held on for the victory.
Q: Who won the Western Bulldogs vs. Port Adelaide game?
The Western Bulldogs won a close game against Port Adelaide at the Adelaide Oval. A late point from Harvey Gallagher secured the win for the Bulldogs, ending their four-game losing streak.
Q: What team news was there in the AFL this weekend?
The Melbourne Demons have a player returning after a long absence, and the Adelaide Crows made two team changes. Eight Academy players were drafted by the Gold Coast Suns for the AFLW.
Q: What initiatives are Sydney Swans and North Melbourne doing?
The Sydney Swans are promoting their 'Sydney Swans Institute' for player development. North Melbourne is offering member benefits like deals on cars and travel vouchers for home games.