Geelong and Melbourne were the big winners on the weekend. Geelong leapfrogged Essendon courtesy of its 27-point win over Brisbane and now sit in fifth place on the ladder while the Demons are alone in second place after a 26-point win over a lacklustre Essendon.

Geelong was just irresistible at Skilled Stadium and thoroughly deserved their win over the Lions. The Cats simply worked harder than their Brisbane counterparts and won more contest ball as a result. Ben Graham was sensational at centre half forward for the winners while David Wojcinski and Darren Milburn were also outstanding contributors. Jonathon Brown and Michael Voss tried hard for Brisbane.

Adelaide gave retiring Premiership player Nigel Smart a fitting send off, recording a 32-point win over the Western Bulldogs at AAMI Stadium. A seven-goal first quarter was the key to the victory. Scott Welsh and Matthew Bode were the best for the winners while Scott West was his usual honest self.

The Kangaroos moved back into the top eight for the time being after downing the West Coast Eagles by 33-points at Manuka Oval. A five goal to two third quarter sealed the Eagles’ fate and they now appear certain to miss finals’ action. Brent Harvey was back to his best for the winners and he was well supported by Daniel Harris and Shannon Grant. Peter Matera played a lone hand for the Eagles up forward and he finished with three goals.

Port Adelaide recorded one of its most important wins of the season beating Fremantle by 10 points at Subiaco Oval. In a titanic struggle, Port just proved to be a more polished outfit by hand and foot when the pressure was on. Roger James was brilliant as was Peter Burgoyne. Peter Bell worked tirelssly for Fremantle.

St Kilda returned to The Dome and its best form against Hawthorn on Friday night. The Hawks jumped the Saints early, leading by 25 points at one stage of the game. However ot was all St Kilda after quarter time – the Saints kicking 16 goals to Hawthorn’s three. Stephen Powell was the best player on the ground but he was well supported by Sptephen Milne, Brett Voss and Heath Black.

Carlton – or should we say Brendan Fevola – defeated Richmond by 31 points at The Dome on Saturday night. Fevola was simply superb kicking eight goals and he was clearly the difference between the two sides. Nick Stevens and Matthew Lappin were also very good while Joel Bowden was the best for the Tigers. The Blues now sit just outside the eight.