Cyclone Alfred may have shortened the opening round of the 2025 AFL season to just two games, but there was no shortage of standout performances as the Brownlow race got underway.
Hawthorn vs Sydney
Hawthorn opened the season with a 20-point win over Sydney, and Will Day was the clear best on ground.
The Hawks midfielder had a dominant first half, racking up 19 disposals and kicking three goals before the main break.
He also finished with 13 contested possessions, just one behind Isaac Heeney (14), the game’s leader. His match-winning influence should see him claim three Brownlow votes.
For Sydney, Chad Warner worked tirelessly to keep the Swans in the game, finishing with 21 disposals, two goals, and six inside 50s, consistently driving Sydney forward.
His impact, especially when the game was in the balance, makes him the likely two-vote getter.
Lloyd Meek delivered a standout performance against two-time All-Australian Brodie Grundy, holding his own in the ruck and doing enough to earn the one vote.
| 3. Will Day | 2. Chad Warner | 1. Lloyd Meek |
GWS vs Collingwood
The Giants made a statement in their dominant win over Collingwood, and Finn Callaghan was the standout.
The young midfielder, who was reportedly offered $1.7 million per season by St Kilda, showed exactly why he’s in such high demand.
He finished with 33 disposals, two goals, and a game-high seven clearances, making him a certainty for the three votes.
Down back, Sam Taylor was a brick wall, intercepting everything Collingwood was sending his way.
His eight intercept marks proved crucial in shutting down Collingwood’s forward entries, earning him the expected two votes.
With Tom Green missing from the Giants’ midfield, Jake Kelly stepped up in a big way, helping GWS dominate the contest.
His ability to win the ball and provide stability around the stoppages played a key role in the win, making him a strong pick for the one vote.
| 3. Finn Callaghan | 2. Sam Taylor | 1. Jake Kelly |
With the season now underway, we’ll be tracking the Brownlow race every week, analysing key performances and uncovering the best Brownlow betting plays throughout the year!