The 2025 AFL season has revealed stark contrasts between the Fremantle Dockers and Carlton Blues, highlighting Fremantle’s impressive performance and Carlton’s disappointing campaign. As the season nears its conclusion, the Dockers have secured their place as a formidable team, while Carlton faces scrutiny after failing to meet expectations.
Fremantle Dockers: A Season of Success
The Fremantle Dockers, under the leadership of coach Justin Longmuir, have enjoyed a remarkable season, having already won 15 games, marking the club’s second-best return in a decade. Regardless of the outcome of their match against the Western Bulldogs on Sunday, the Dockers have demonstrated significant growth. They are currently scoring more points per game than in any season since 2014, and their squad is notably young, ranking as the fifth youngest and fourth least experienced in the league.
Despite the high expectations set before the season, missing out on the finals would not diminish Fremantle’s achievements. If they do fall short, they would become the best team in league history, measured by premiership points, to miss a finals berth. The team hit a rough patch early on, with a 4-5 record, but rebounded spectacularly, winning 11 of their next 12 games. Although they recently lost to the Brisbane Lions, their resilience throughout the season underscores their potential for future success.
Carlton Blues: A Season to Forget
In stark contrast, the Carlton Blues are grappling with disappointment, having secured only seven wins this season. Under the guidance of coach Michael Voss, Carlton is poised to miss the finals by a significant margin of 24 premiership points, compounded by a negative scoring differential of 184 points in second halves this year. Despite entering the season as a team many believed could contend for the premiership, the Blues have struggled with in-game adjustments and maintaining momentum.
As the team prepares for the next season, questions arise about the longevity of their core players. Captain Patrick Cripps will turn 31 at the start of next season, and several key players, including Harry McKay and Charlie Curnow, will also be approaching their primes. The lack of younger talent on the roster raises concerns about Carlton’s future, as the team has failed to develop a sustainable pipeline of emerging players. Voss will need to demonstrate significant improvement next season to retain his position.
Positive Developments for St Kilda
In a more positive vein, Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera has signed a lucrative contract extension with St Kilda, reportedly worth AUD 2 million per season. This decision ends speculation about his potential departure and represents a significant win for both the player and the club. At just 22 years old, Wanganeen-Milera has the potential to become a club great, while St Kilda retains a key asset that could contribute to their long-term success.
Jack Gunston’s All-Australian Case
Another highlight of the season is the remarkable performance of Jack Gunston. The veteran forward has enjoyed a career-best season, scoring over 60 goals, a feat achieved by only two other players in league history at the age of 34. Gunston’s resurgence has positioned him as a strong candidate for the All-Australian team, making a compelling case for his selection based on both performance and narrative.
As the season concludes, fans and analysts alike are left to ponder the implications of this year’s outcomes. With Fremantle looking ahead to potential finals contention and Carlton facing an uncertain future, the 2025 AFL season has delivered drama and intrigue, setting the stage for next year’s competition.
