AFL State League Roundup: Lions Star Shines, Cats Veteran Returns to Form
This weekend's VFL, SANFL, and WAFL action delivered standout performances from AFL-listed players pushing for senior recalls. Brisbane's Will McLachlan kicked eight goals, Geelong's Jack Martin booted four, and Sydney's Joel Hamling slotted six as state league affiliates across the country showcased depth and resilience.
Brisbane Lions (VFL) Dominate with McLachlan's Haul
Will McLachlan delivered a career-best performance, kicking eight goals from 17 disposals as Brisbane defeated North Melbourne by 13 points at Brighton Homes Arena. Oscar Allen contributed two goals from 10 disposals as he builds toward an AFL return. Academy product Dan Annable impressed with a game-high 37 disposals, eight marks, five clearances, and one goal, while Sam Marshall (29 disposals) and Shadeau Brain (22 disposals, 10 marks) also stood out.
Geelong Cats (VFL) Cruise Past Casey Demons
Jack Martin kicked four goals from 14 disposals in Geelong's 53-point win over Casey Demons. Jack Bowes was the standout midfielder with 35 disposals, 12 clearances, and six tackles. George Stevens added 32 disposals, six clearances, and a goal, while ruck Joe Pike contributed 24 hitouts and 15 disposals.
Sydney Swans (VFL) Thrash GWS Giants
Joel Hamling, a former Bulldogs premiership player, kicked six goals from nine disposals as Sydney thrashed GWS by 78 points. Small forwards Jesse Dattoli, Tom Hanily, and Jevan Phillipou each kicked three goals. Corey Warner led the disposals with 26, while Will Green dominated the ruck with 42 hitouts.
Other Notable Performances
- Carlton (VFL): Ollie Hollands (28 disposals, nine marks, nine tackles) and Ben Camporeale (27 disposals, six clearances) led a 18-point win over Gold Coast.
- Collingwood (VFL): Mid-season pick-up Mitch Podhajski kicked five goals in a 10-point win over St Kilda.
- Essendon (VFL): Vigo Visentini dominated the ruck with 29 hitouts and 19 disposals in a 25-point win over Box Hill.
- Fremantle (WAFL affiliate Peel Thunder): Sean Darcy recorded 37 hitouts and 23 disposals in an eight-point win over Subiaco.
- Gold Coast (VFL): Jamarra Ugle-Hagan kicked three goals despite the Suns' 18-point loss to Carlton.
- North Melbourne (VFL): Wil Dawson kicked three goals with 16 disposals and 25 hitouts in a 13-point loss to Brisbane.
- Richmond (VFL): Judson Clarke continued his comeback from knee injuries with 16 disposals in a 74-point loss to Footscray.
- St Kilda (VFL): Liam Henry responded to his axing with 28 disposals and eight tackles in a 10-point loss to Collingwood.
- Western Bulldogs (VFL affiliate Footscray): Harvey Gallagher (31 disposals) and Oskar Baker (25 disposals) dominated in a 74-point win over Richmond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which AFL player kicked the most goals in state leagues this weekend?
Will McLachlan kicked eight goals for Brisbane in the VFL, the highest tally of any player across the state leagues.
How did Joel Hamling perform for Sydney?
Joel Hamling kicked six goals from nine disposals in Sydney's 78-point win over GWS, showcasing his versatility as a forward.
What was the biggest win in the VFL this weekend?
Footscray defeated Richmond by 74 points, with Harvey Gallagher (31 disposals) and Oskar Baker (25 disposals) leading the way.