Round 1 of the 2025 AFL season has kicked off with significant performances, particularly from first-year players, and some tactical decisions raising eyebrows among fans and analysts. The weekend saw 24 debutants make their mark on the field, showcasing the immense talent brought forth from last year's draft. This influx has led many to wonder if this could be the best week for debutants the AFL has ever seen.
Among the standout performances, Sam Lalor shone brightly with 18 disposals, including eight score involvements and two goals. His notable performance, rated at 17.30 points, made him one of the top debut players. Luke Trainor also held his own defensively for Richmond, contributing to the team's solid efforts. Other debutants like Murphy Reid scored four goals at lightning speed, generating excitement and discussion among fans and media alike.
While the statistical achievements are impressive, it's necessary to approach claims about the 'best week for debutants ever' with caution. The data suggests it could be seen as the fourth best overall week, falling behind notable debut rounds from past years, such as when GWS joined the league or the first round of the 2011 season. This puts the Round 1 performances of 2025 within historical contexts, contrasting milestones and expectations within the game.
Another highlight of Round 1 was the puzzling decision by Collingwood to start veteran player Scott Pendlebury as the substitute against Port Adelaide. The choice received mixed reactions; some viewed it as necessary workload management. Pendlebury, who is 37, has been pivotal to the team, and pondering if this strategy reflects adversely on team tactics is warranted. Craig McRae, Collingwood's coach, acknowledged the discussions he'd had with Pendlebury about this decision as early as mid-February. The approach implied load management rather than tactical change, satisfying both the player and coaching staff.
Critics argue this decision may send the wrong message about utilizing substitutes solely for strategic purposes. Pundits suggest focusing on tactical advantages rather than easing veterans through the season could benefit the overall performance of the team. Despite the pushback, McRae defended the strategy, indicating it isn't unusual to modify strategies for player well-being, especially during the grueling season start. After all, if the strategy can keep Pendlebury fresh for the latter stages of the season, it could prove invaluable.
Meanwhile, young midfielder Finn Callaghan made waves with his explosive energy and presence on the field, particularly following his standout performance against Collingwood. After racking up 31 disposals, Callaghan visibly displayed frustration when rotated off the field during the final moments of the match against Melbourne, signaling his eagerness to contribute when it mattered. According to ESPN, "Callaghan's reaction didn't look to be about selfishness, but about self-belief." This moment underscored how much he believes in his abilities and contributions to the team.
His performance was not merely emotional; he demonstrated skill, amassing nine disposals and three score involvements during the closing quarter. Teams recognize moments like these when players exhibit confidence and are ready to step up. His career highlights may well define the Giants' path forward this season as they navigate their role within the competitive league.
The round also featured early glimpses of potential powerhouses this season with results showing teams asserting their dominance. The Brisbane Lions clinched victory against Sydney by four points, showcasing their resilience even under challenging conditions. Hawthorn's strong win over Essendon and Geelong's significant triumph over Fremantle demand recognition, solidifying their positions as contenders. GWS snagged another narrow win, this time over Melbourne, which had played five debutants, indicating varying levels of experience and adaptation on the field.
Port Adelaide, on the other hand, faced significant challenges, experiencing defeat at the hands of Collingwood by 91 points. Critics pointed at the coaching strategies and game plan's effectiveness as focal discussion points. A loss this significant leads to questions about the direction of the team, especially considering early season expectations. The expected scores from the opening round provide insights; teams are evaluated not only on wins and losses but the quality of their play benchmarked against their expected performance.
With the Power Rankings beginning to take shape following Round 1, analysts provided insights reflecting early strengths and weaknesses across the league. Teams like Brisbane, Hawthorn, and GWS look to build on their openings, holding strong within the upper echelon of the rankings. Yet the narrative cautions against immediate reactions; after all, early results often shift as teams refine their strategies and tackle injury challenges.
While the teams adjust and settle, the narrative from Round 1 will help delineate expectations going forward. Teams will face new challenges as scouting and strategies evolve. With the performances analyzed and rated, anticipation builds as each round reinforces the league's dynamic nature and the competitive spirit of the teams vying for the premiership title. Fans and players alike will stay tuned for how these early narratives will shape the course of the 2025 AFL season.
