GOOD – RIGHT DECISION

For 15 seasons, we have marvelled at Jeremy McGovern’s fearlessness, courage, and unwavering commitment to the contest.

The star defender has consistently put his body on the line for the Eagles. He was the epitome of a team player.

But at his press conference on Friday afternoon, where he announced his medical retirement, he wasn’t just the West Coast warrior we have all come to know and love.

He was, first and foremost, a husband, a father to three beautiful children, a son, and a brother.

As he walked into the packed room at Mineral Resources Park with his young family by his side, it became so profoundly clear to me: his decision to walk away from the game – was without a doubt, the right one.

McGovern retires not just as one of the greatest defenders to ever pull on the boots, but as a symbol of something far bigger.

In a sport that constantly demands physical extremes and even glorifies playing through the pain, McGovern’s courage to walk away might just leave the greatest mark of all.

It’s sent a powerful message, empowering others in a similar situation to put their long-term health and family above all else.

When asked how he’d like to be remembered, McGovern simply replied, “as being a great bloke.”

It’s safe to say, he will indeed be remembered as a great bloke and a remarkable footballer, but also as someone who was brave enough to know when it was time to walk away.

I wish McGovern and his family nothing but the best in the future. Thank you for all the memories, Gov. You are an Eagles champion, a legacy player and more importantly a legacy person.

BAD - BLUES

I can’t remember the last time I’ve seen fans overtly cry at a regular home-and-away fixture (except for maybe a young Anna, at Subiaco Oval)

Nor can I remember hearing such raw, unadulterated anger from fans on talkback radio following a defeat.

Carlton’s shock loss to North Melbourne has cranked the heat right up on coach Michael Voss.

The 11-point defeat on Saturday has not only left Voss fighting to save his job, but the club fighting to save their season.

The Blues are currently sitting two games outside the top eight with six wins and eight losses.

Carlton will need to win seven of their remaining nine games to see September action, which isn’t going to be an easy task, given they face Collingwood and Brisbane.

All the blame can’t be put on Voss. It’s up to the players to take responsibility too.

One caller on radio said it best. “If the players don’t want to play for the coach, play for the emblem”.

UGLY – DOCKERS HOME STRETCH

The Dockers’ past month has been pretty close to flawless.

Flagmantle is coming off a red-hot five game winning streak that has them sitting in sixth on the AFL ladder.

They’re riding a wave of momentum, and a top eight finish is absolutely achievable.

But looking at their remaining nine games of the season, a spot in the top four — could be a really hard ask.

St Kilda at Optus Stadium next Sunday should be an easy four points, but it’s their last comfortable breath before they deep dive.

The following week they face the resurgent Sydney Swans at the SCG, then Hawthorn at Optus stadium. Both are 50-50 matches.

Collingwood at the MCG: This will be the ultimate test for Fremantle.

They should get the job done easily against the Eagles, Blues and Power, but we all know what can happen when the Dockers get complacent.

The Lions and Bulldogs round out their 2025 season.

It’s a high-stake, high-pressure schedule that will demand every bit of the Dockers newfound consistency and momentum.

But nothing is impossible with this talent stacked side.