2018 AFL Grand Final

The 2018 AFL Grand Final: A Battle for Glory

Imagine stepping into the hallowed grounds of the Melbourne Cricket Ground on September 29, 2018, with 100,022 other fans, all eager to witness history in the making. The 2018 AFL Grand Final was not just a game; it was a clash between two titans of Australian rules football—West Coast Eagles and Collingwood Football Club.

The atmosphere was electric, with every moment suspended in anticipation. Could you feel the tension building as the teams took to the field? The match was more than just a contest for points—it was a battle for supremacy, a fight for the Norm Smith Medal, and ultimately, the coveted premiership.

West Coast Eagles entered the fray with a 16-6 win-loss record, their best season in three years. They were determined to reclaim their throne after a four-year hiatus from the grand final stage. Meanwhile, Collingwood Football Club, having missed the finals for four consecutive seasons, was ready to prove its mettle and bounce back with a bang.

The First Quarter: A Dominance of Collingwood?

Collingwood started strong, dominating the first quarter. But as the game progressed, West Coast began to chip away at their lead. By halftime, the margin was just five points, setting the stage for a nail-biting final term.

The Turning Point: A Moment of Destiny

It was in the third quarter that the match took an unexpected turn. Alex Woodward from Collingwood accidentally impeded Stephenson’s access to a marking contest. This pivotal moment allowed West Coast midfielder Elliot Yeo to claim an uncontested intercept mark, kicking a 50-metre set shot and putting West Coast ahead for the first time since the game began.

That single goal was like a spark in a dry forest—once lit, it ignited a fire that would burn through the final term. It changed the course of the match, shifting the momentum from Collingwood to West Coast.

The Final Term: A Race Against Time

The final term started off rapidly with three goals scored within four minutes. Collingwood extended their lead but West Coast was relentless, dominating the contest and repeatedly failing to convert inside-50 shots. With less than two minutes left, Dom Sheed kicked a goal from 45 metres out, putting West Coast in front by just four points.

The tension was palpable as the final siren approached. Would Collingwood find that last goal to tie it up? Or would West Coast hold on for their fourth premiership since 2006?

Awestruck Moments and a Record-Breaking Viewership

The presentation ceremony was watched by 2.62 million viewers across Australia, marking the fifth consecutive year the AFL Grand Final topped television viewership. It was a testament to the enduring appeal of Australian rules football.

Luke Shuey: The Best Player on Ground

West Coast’s Luke Shuey was awarded the Norm Smith Medal as the best player on ground, collecting 34 disposals and eight clearances. His performance was a masterclass in leadership and skill, embodying what it takes to be the best.

The Final Score: A Behind for Collingwood

Collingwood’s final score of the game was a behind, marking their defeat but also their resilience and determination to fight until the very end. The match will forever be remembered as one of the greatest grand finals in AFL history.

Condensed Infos to 2018 AFL Grand Final

The 2018 AFL Grand Final was more than just a game—it was a testament to the enduring spirit of Australian rules football. It showcased the passion, skill, and determination that make this sport so special. As we look back on that day, we are reminded of the power of moments that shape history and the legacy they leave behind.