It was a disappointing year for North, a wonderful year for Port, a year that had Tiger fans up and about and a forgettable year for Saints fans.
North Melbourne
The Kangaroos had a pretty good season, apart from the fact that they lost six games by less than 10 points, which left them 10th on the ladder. Jack Ziebell and Ryan Bastinac had good years and Lindsay Thomas continued to kick goals.
Rating – 5. Showed glimpses of a superstar team, but, to their supporters’ disappointment, the Kangaroos seemed to drop off in many final quarters and surrender leads.
2014 Predictions – I expect the Kangaroos to significantly improve their position on the ladder in 2014, as they have a great group of players. If they can learn from this season, they can definitely challenge for a top six finish.
2014 Ladder Position – 5-8
Next premiership chance – 1-4 years
Look out for – Aaron Black
Expect more brilliance from – Daniel Wells
Port Adelaide
The Power had a fantastic year, and they’ve definitely turned the corner after a dismal few seasons. Chad Wingard stepped up and Justin Westhoff found career-best form.
Rating – 7.5. It was a promising year for Port, which finished with a respectable loss to Geelong in the second week of the finals.
2014 Predictions – I expect Port to finish at around the same spot on the ladder as this year. The Power need one more year to develop before they become a premiership contender.
2014 Ladder Position – 5-8
Next premiership chance – 1-3
Look out for – Oliver Wines
Expect more brilliance from – Travis Boak
Richmond
The Tigers had a great year and made it into the finals for the first time since 2001, which had all Tiger supporters up and about. They had good wins over Hawthorn and Fremantle, and finally broke their hoodoo against the Suns.
Rating – 6.5. Showed a lot of promise for the future.
2014 Predictions – I expect the Tigers to challenge for a place in the top four, although I’m not sure they can win the premiership.
2014 Ladder Position – 4-7
Next premiership chance – 1-4 years
Look out for – Brandon Ellis
Expect more brilliance from – Trent Cotchin
St Kilda
It was a tough year for Saints fans, as they continue to drop further and further down the ladder. Jack Steven was the only bright light, averaging 27 disposals and kicking 16 goals for the season.
Rating – 4. A terrible year for the Saints, as they finished 16th with only five wins.
2014 Predictions – I expect the Saints to stay around the same place on the ladder. I think that if the Saints fall to the bottom of the ladder, Scott Watters will be sacked.
2014 Ladder Position – 15-17
Next premiership chance – 6-7 years
Look out for – Jimmy Webster
Expect more brilliance from – Lenny Hayes
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