Conversion is critical in the AFL. Whether you're seen as a premiership contender or a cellar-dweller, the stat that matters is how you impact the scoreboard.
The ability to utilise possession when moving forward is an art. Even some of this season's best sides were unable to capitalise at times - and it cost them their campaign.
The chain between midfield and attack must be in sync, with both inside 50 delivery and goal accuracy playing part in 'getting the job done'.
kicks for goal during the AFL Community Series match between the Geelong Cats and the Essendon Bombers at GMHBA Stadium on March 06, 2021 in Geelong, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)
A forward feeds off his teammates. Spearing at a pass into the hot spot or managing to get out the back of a contest and onto a long kick over the top. A forward can make or break your premiership dream.
But in order to have these barometers giving your side a chance at all, the battle in the engine room must be won.
Clubs can dominate the midfield week-in, week-out and come to no avail in the premiership points column.
First use of the ball is key. But the best use is paramount.
With this in mind, we've taken a look into the TOP THREE clubs that were able to capitalise most on their forward 50 entries and turn those opportunities into goal.
2. Sydney (24.38%)
303 goals
1,243 inside 50s
The Swans were the shock contender of this season, sky-rocketing into a top-six finish before bowing out of finals in the opening week.
A side overflowing with young talent, there was plenty to enjoy from watching the Bloods back near their best.
A key string in their bow throughout 2021 was the Swans' ability to capitalise, ranking third overall for goals scored despite having just the sixth most forward entries.
Led by veteran star Lance Franklin, who record a stunningly accurate 51 goals and 24 behinds for the year, the Swans were able to impact the scoreboard from a strong rate of their time in their attacking arc.
All-Australian forward Tom Papley was also critical in their attack, which was stemmed from their exciting new-look midfield.
Defender-turned-forward Callum Mills was exceptional in his new role under John Longmire, joining star midfielder Luke Parker and emerging onballer Oliver Florent to round out the club's leading inside 50 ranks.
The dead-eye of Jordan Dawson was played a substantial role in feeding the Swans' forwards, who were ever-reliable in front of goal.
