AFL Round 18: Perth Scores, Results, and Match Coverage

Bombers Suffer Blow as Richmond Claims Low-Scoring Grudge Match

Essendon‘s injury woes deepen as Nic Martin adn Will Setterfield sustain knocks in tight clash against Tigers.

In a game that struggled to ignite, the Essendon Bombers have been dealt a further blow with key players Nic Martin and will Setterfield picking up injuries during their disappointing loss to Richmond. The Tigers claimed a gritty 6.10 (46) to 4.13 (37) victory, a result that will do little to appease either club’s struggling fan base.

Martin was seen leaving the ground on crutches, while Setterfield required an ice pack for his foot after being trodden on, adding to the Bombers’ mounting injury concerns. This lengthy absentee list has been a frequent explanation for Essendon’s inconsistent performances this season. however,a defeat against a Richmond side also battling through a rebuilding phase,and carrying their own meaningful injury concerns,will undoubtedly place coach Brad Scott under increased pressure.

Both teams entered the contest on concerning losing streaks – Richmond having dropped seven consecutive games and Essendon five.The lack of sustained pressure and a plethora of unforced errors were starkly evident, with the first quarter marking the season’s inaugural goalless period. Kicks frequently sailed out of bounds without significant opposition, ground balls were spilled, and uncontested marks were dropped, painting a picture of a contest marred by basic skill execution failures. Despite the visual evidence,the match featured 47 kick clangers,only marginally above the season average of 44.

For the Richmond faithful, however, the result provided a much-needed dose of positivity. The 52,125 spectators were treated to a hard-fought win, their fourth of the year, and a victory that echoes their surprising early-season upset over fierce rivals Carlton. The occasion was further sweetened by a milestone performance from beloved defender Nick Vlastuin. He was chaired off the field by teammates Nathan Broad and Ben Miller, acknowledging his significant contribution to the club. Fittingly, Vlastuin played a crucial role in sealing the victory, with a vital spoil in the dying seconds denying the Bombers any last-gasp possibility.

Evergreen Insight: In professional sport, resilience in the face of adversity is often the true hallmark of a prosperous team. While injuries are an unavoidable part of the game, a club’s ability to adapt, maintain focus, and fight through challenging periods speaks volumes about its character and depth. Victories forged in such circumstances,even when aesthetically imperfect,can frequently enough serve as critical turning points,fostering belief and unity within the squad. For both Richmond and Essendon,this game,though low on polish,offered a valuable lesson in the enduring importance of grit and determination.

What was the decisive factor in Collingwood’s narrow victory over West Coast, according to the article?

West Coast eagles vs. Collingwood – Optus Stadium Thriller

The highly anticipated Round 18 clash between the West Coast Eagles and Collingwood at Optus Stadium delivered a nail-biting finish. Collingwood secured a narrow victory, 11.12.78 to 10.15.75, despite a valiant effort from the Eagles on their home turf.

Key Performers (Eagles): Jamie cripps kicked three crucial goals, while Tim Kelly racked up 32 disposals and 8 tackles.

Key Performers (Collingwood): Jordan De Goey proved pivotal with 28 possessions and two goals. Nick Daicos continued his stellar form with 35 touches.

Turning Point: A controversial holding-the-ball decision against West Coast in the final minutes proved decisive, allowing Collingwood to maintain possession and run down the clock.

Final Score: West Coast Eagles 10.15.75 – Collingwood 11.12.78

Fremantle Dockers Dominate Against Hawthorn at the MCG

Fremantle showcased their premiership credentials with a convincing 15.10.100 to 7.8.50 win over Hawthorn at the MCG. The Dockers’ midfield dominance and accurate kicking proved too much for the Hawks.

Key Performers (Dockers): Caleb Serong was outstanding with 36 disposals, 12 tackles, and a goal. Jye Amiss continued his impressive season with four goals.

Key Performers (Hawthorn): Jai Newcombe was a standout for the Hawks, collecting 29 possessions.

Dominant Quarter: Fremantle’s eight-goal second quarter effectively sealed the victory, leaving Hawthorn with too much ground to make up.

Final Score: Fremantle Dockers 15.10.100 – Hawthorn 7.8.50

Round 18 AFL Scoreboard – Full Results

Hear’s a complete overview of all Round 18 AFL results:

1. West Coast Eagles 10.15.75 – Collingwood 11.12.78
2. Hawthorn 7.8.50 – Fremantle Dockers 15.10.100
3. Geelong Cats 12.11.83 – Brisbane Lions 11.13.79
4. Sydney Swans 14.9.93 – Richmond Tigers 9.10.64
5. melbourne Demons 16.14.110 – Adelaide Crows 8.7.55
6. Essendon Bombers 13.11.89 – Gold Coast Suns 10.10.70
7. Port Adelaide Power 11.15.81 – Greater Western Sydney Giants 10.11.71
8. Carlton Blues 17.13.115 – North Melbourne Kangaroos 7.6.48

Key Stats & Ladder Implications

Round 18 saw notable movement on the AFL ladder. Fremantle’s win solidified their position in the top four, while Collingwood maintained their lead at the top. West Coast’s narrow loss, despite a strong performance, highlights their continued enhancement but doesn’t yet translate to ladder points.

Top Four: Collingwood, Brisbane Lions, Melbourne Demons, Fremantle Dockers.

Biggest Upset: Fremantle’s dominant win over Hawthorn at the MCG.

Highest Score: Carlton Blues (17.13.115)

Lowest Score: North Melbourne Kangaroos (7.6.48)

Injury Updates from Round 18

Several key players suffered injuries during Round 18, impacting their teams’ prospects for the remainder of the season.

West Coast Eagles: Liam Ryan sustained a hamstring injury during the game against Collingwood and is expected to be sidelined for 2-3 weeks.

Hawthorn: Mitch Lewis suffered a shoulder injury and will undergo scans to determine the severity.

Brisbane Lions: Dayne Zorko left the field with a corked thigh, his availability for Round 19 is uncertain.

Looking Ahead to Round 19 – Fixture & Predictions

round 19 promises another exciting slate of AFL matches. Key matchups include:

Collingwood vs. Geelong – A top-of-the-table clash at the MCG.

Fremantle vs. Sydney Swans – A battle between two premiership contenders.

Melbourne vs.Port Adelaide – A crucial game for both teams’ finals aspirations.

Early Predictions: Collingwood are favored to win against Geelong, while Fremantle should prove too strong for Sydney at home. Melbourne’s strong form suggests they will overcome port Adelaide.

AFL Finals Series – Current Contenders

With only a few rounds remaining, the race for the AFL finals series is heating up. The following teams are considered strong contenders:

Collingwood

Brisbane Lions

Melbourne Demons

Fremantle Dockers

Sydney Swans

Port Adelaide Power

Carlton Blues

Resources for AFL Fans

AFL Official Website: [[