The 2018 Australian Football League (AFL) season was a thrilling ride for fans across Australia, filled with dramatic matches, surprising upsets, and incredible performances. As we delve into the AFL scores 2018, it’s clear that this season was one for the books, culminating in a nail-biting Grand Final that saw the West Coast Eagles claim their fourth premiership title. In this article, we’ll explore the highlights of the season, key matches, and what made 2018 so memorable for AFL enthusiasts.
Pre-Season and Early Rounds
The season kicked off with the AFLX competition, a fast-paced, modified version of the game played on a soccer-sized pitch. This was followed by the JLT Community Series, which gave fans a glimpse into the teams’ strategies and player dynamics. Notably, the pre-season saw significant changes, including the elimination of the nine-point super goal, which had been a feature since 2003.
As the regular season began, teams like Richmond and West Coast quickly established themselves as contenders. Richmond’s strong start, including a 26-point win over Carlton in Round 1, set the tone for their consistent performance throughout the year.
Standout Teams and Matches
Several teams stood out during the 2018 season:
- Richmond Tigers: Finished first on the ladder with 18 wins, showcasing their dominance early on.
- West Coast Eagles: Secured second place with 16 wins, setting themselves up for a successful finals campaign.
- Collingwood Magpies: Finished third, with a strong run leading into the finals.
Some of the most memorable matches included:
- Round 6: Sydney’s 17-point win over Geelong at GMHBA Stadium, highlighting Sydney’s consistency.
- Round 9: Melbourne’s massive 109-point victory over Carlton, demonstrating Melbourne’s attacking prowess.
Finals Series
The finals series was intense, with several teams vying for a spot in the Grand Final. Key matches included:
- Preliminary Finals: West Coast Eagles defeated Melbourne by 66 points, while Collingwood edged out Richmond by 39 points.
- Grand Final: West Coast Eagles defeated Collingwood by five points in a thrilling match, securing their fourth premiership.
Insights into AFL Scores 2018
Looking at the AFL scores 2018, it’s evident that consistency was key for top teams. Here are some insights into the season’s statistics:
- Top Scorers: Teams like Melbourne and Richmond consistently scored high, with Melbourne averaging over 100 points per game.
- Defensive Strengths: Teams like Hawthorn and Geelong showed strong defensive capabilities, often limiting opponents to under 70 points.
Key Statistics
Here are some key statistics from the 2018 AFL season:
- Highest Scoring Match: Melbourne vs. Carlton in Round 9, where Melbourne scored 159 points.
- Lowest Scoring Match: Gold Coast vs. Brisbane in Round 3, where both teams combined for just 91 points.
- Most Wins: Richmond with 18 wins during the regular season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the 2018 AFL Grand Final?
The 2018 AFL Grand Final saw the West Coast Eagles defeat the Collingwood Magpies by five points, securing their fourth premiership title.
Which team finished at the top of the ladder in the 2018 AFL regular season?
Richmond Tigers finished first on the ladder with 18 wins during the regular season.
Who were the top contenders for the 2018 AFL finals?
The top contenders included Richmond Tigers, West Coast Eagles, and Collingwood Magpies, with Richmond and West Coast being the most consistent throughout the season.
What was notable about the pre-season in 2018?
The pre-season featured the AFLX competition and the JLT Community Series, which gave fans a glimpse into team strategies and player dynamics. It also marked the elimination of the nine-point super goal.
Which match was the highest scoring in the 2018 AFL season?
The highest scoring match was Melbourne vs. Carlton in Round 9, where Melbourne scored 159 points.
What was the lowest scoring match of the 2018 AFL season?
The lowest scoring match was between Gold Coast and Brisbane in Round 3, where both teams combined for just 91 points.
How did the West Coast Eagles perform in the finals series?
The West Coast Eagles had a strong finals campaign, defeating Melbourne in the preliminary finals and then winning the Grand Final against Collingwood.
Which teams showed strong defensive capabilities during the 2018 season?
Teams like Hawthorn and Geelong demonstrated strong defensive strengths, often limiting opponents to under 70 points.
What made the 2018 AFL season memorable?
The season was memorable for its competitive balance, thrilling matches, and the eventual premiership win by the West Coast Eagles in a closely contested Grand Final.
Where can I find more information about AFL scores and past seasons?
You can find more information about AFL scores and past seasons by checking out historical match data and analysis on official AFL websites or sports news platforms.
Conclusion
The 2018 AFL season was marked by incredible performances, surprising upsets, and a thrilling Grand Final. As we reflect on the AFL scores 2018, it’s clear that this season will be remembered for its competitive balance and exciting matches. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just starting to follow the AFL, understanding the dynamics of the season can enhance your appreciation for the sport. If you’re interested in exploring more about the AFL or want to dive deeper into past seasons, consider checking out historical match data and analysis. This can provide valuable insights into team strategies and player performances, helping you become a more informed fan. Additionally, following AFL news and updates can keep you engaged with the latest developments in the league. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the world of Australian football and discover why the AFL remains one of Australia’s most beloved sports.
As you look back at the AFL scores 2018, remember that each season brings new challenges and opportunities for teams to rise to the top. Whether you’re cheering for a specific team or just enjoying the excitement of the game, the AFL has something for everyone. So, stay tuned for the next season’s action-packed matches and thrilling AFL scores 2018 will be a great reference point for understanding the evolution of the league.
