Finals Week 1 began Saturday on a dramatic note, and the action took no time to deliver a shock. Sydney forward Tom Papley kicked five goals against Brisbane in a stunning individual display, shaping the contest by himself. The injured Swans captain looked on from the sidelines while the forwards took over. Brisbane lost in a shock result, and eight premiership players failed to fire.
Adelaide opens its finals campaign on a confident note, with coach Matthew Nicks entering his September test. Assistant Burns said the team is primed for the finals stage. The Crows are no longer hiding last September's disappointment, yet those memories remain a theme ahead of their finals fixture.