Few coaches in the AFL exhibit the explosive energy of Adam Kingsley. The Giants recently shared footage of his passionate halftime address during last year’s Sydney derby, where they struggled in the first half. In their recent match against Brisbane, however, they didn’t require such a dramatic response. They had been performing well against the reigning champions, a team that consistently motivates them to elevate their game. Yet, the transformation that occurred at halftime demands further exploration, as they launched an unprecedented offensive rarely seen in the contemporary game, particularly against a team that has clinched the last two premierships.
Their semi-final matchup in 2024 was one of the most memorable in recent history. This particular game, however, lacked dramatic fluctuations; instead, it showcased an uninterrupted, relentless assault reminiscent of country football matches where former AFL players dominate against teams of middle-aged local farmers. With minimal resistance, the Giants scored within 20 seconds. They displayed a style of play akin to their dominant performances in 2016 and 2017, featuring sweeping movements originating from their half-back line. It was reminiscent of a flawless training session.
During the third quarter, the Giants achieved a remarkable 14-goal blitz, setting a record for the highest score in a single quarter in VFL/AFL history. Additionally, it marked the most goals ever scored against a reigning premier within a single quarter. Ultimately, the match concluded with a score of 26.10 (166) to 13.10 (88) at Engie Stadium.
It’s important to remember that this Giants squad has faced significant challenges this season. From the moment Tom Green sustained a knee injury and Sam Taylor suffered a hamstring injury during the AFL Origin game just a day later, the team has been forced to adapt and persevere. They barely managed to secure a win against Essendon a fortnight ago and fell to the Eagles last week. In light of such performances, Kingsley has adopted a communication strategy that projects a friendly demeanor. “Oh yeah, we’re just a bit off, we’ll be fine,” he reassures in a tone that lacks conviction. Yet, it seems he may not have been as understanding behind closed doors.
This is not the first instance of Brisbane facing difficulties, with many in the football community quick to write them off. Remarkably, they possess an exceptional ability to recover from such slumps. However, an early afternoon game at the Sydney Showground is not typically their strong suit. Despite the 14-0 third quarter, signs of distress have emerged. In prior seasons, even during rough patches, they maintained a solid defensive structure against top teams. They miss the quiet yet effective contributions of Brandon Starcevich and Callum Ah Chee, as well as the critical presence of Dayne Zorko, who has been absent for the past fortnight. His influence is vital to their success; without him, the team loses its energy, decisiveness, and organization. Emotionally and structurally, they appeared lost in their recent performance.
Meanwhile, through the challenges and monotony of recent years, Alastair Clarkson has consistently upheld his unwavering optimism. “The game’s on a knife’s edge,” the North Melbourne coach expresses weekly, even after heavy defeats or commendable losses. He reiterated a similar sentiment at halftime this weekend, despite his team trailing by 38 points to a Gold Coast side that had regained its formidable form. “The game’s on a knife’s edge,” he stated to Fox Footy’s Ben Dixon.
Clarkson’s optimism is not unfounded. This North Melbourne team has the potential to challenge expectations. They exhibit vulnerabilities, occasional lapses, and moments of disarray that can be perplexing even for seasoned professionals. A few weeks ago, Geelong scored 14 goals against them in just over half an hour, while their second quarter against Adelaide last week was marked by a lack of organization and energy.
Nevertheless, they possess a core group of players, particularly among the younger contingent, who are capable of delivering exceptional performances when fully engaged. George Wardlaw, for instance, is a dynamic player around whom Clarkson can envision a promising future, instilling fear in opponents and teammates alike. Harry Sheezel, by the age of 21, had already claimed two best and fairest awards, led the team, and amassed the highest number of possessions in a single game, even becoming a focal point in a controversial discussion initiated by Kane Cornes. Additionally, Finn O’Sullivan showcases a remarkable talent for navigating through challenges and tight spaces.
All three players made significant contributions to North’s comeback this weekend, with Wardlaw notably collecting 13 of his 19 touches in the final quarter. Clarkson also made strategic decisions, moving Colby McKercher to an attacking half-back position and abandoning the experiment of deploying Cam Zurhaar as a defender. Zurhaar returned to form, flourishing in his role as he helped secure the win against the Suns. The team nearly squandered their victory when two players attempted to take a quick advantage after Zurhaar was tackled, a moment that could have resulted in a historically typical North Melbourne loss. Fortunately, the umpire showed leniency, allowing the Roos to triumph with a score of 17.9 (111) to 16.9 (105).
The Suns displayed impressive football; however, their lethargic approach as they approached the three-quarter-time break did not bode well for their prospects. Their defenders struggled in the final quarter, and they faced limitations on allowable rotations. When matches like this teeter on the edge, coaches like Damien Hardwick would urge their players to “raise the fight.” Throughout the closing moments of this game, Hardwick’s shouts echoed, but his players lacked the energy to respond.
