With all the state leagues now up and running, the pressure to maintain and cement a spot in the team's 22 is as crucial as ever, as teams look to maintain their form, or make statement calls at the selection table.
NEAFL
NT Thunder 16.9.105 def. Brisbane 15.14.104
With a gallant defeat to the only undefeated team at Adelaide Oval, the Lions look a class above themselves a year ago. The change of personnel, and the inclusions of Charlie Cameron and Luke Hodge have installed confidence in the youth of the Lions, and would expect more performances like the one on the weekend.
Tom Bell was prolific with 33 touches and two goals in the twos, while Ben Keays had 25 touches and three goals to press their claim for a return to the senior side this week against the Tigers.
Aspley 8.8.56 def by. Gold Coast Suns 11.10.76
Veteran midfielder Michael Barlow will be on Stuart Dew's radar after his 36-possession and seven tackle performance to lead his team to victory over Aspley. Jesse Lonergan was also important, with 26 touches as Dew will look to get his team back on track after a disappointing performance against the Dockers.
UWS Giants 11.7.73 def. Sydney Swans 9.15.69
Former Bulldogs captain Ryan Griffen is on the road back to the senior side, with a strong and influential 30-possession performance in the NEAFL. Aidan Bonar was also influential finishing with 28 disposals in their four point victory over Sydney.
Carlton recruit, Dylan Buckley, finished with four majors, while backmen, Isaac Cumming put in a strong performance, tallying 27 disposals.
Daniel Robinson had 36 touches and a goal as the Swans fell agonisingly short of a win agains the Giants. Harry Marsh, Nic Newman and Colin O'Riordan were also instrumental in their sides performance, collecting 30 touches each.
