With the 2022 AFL home-and-away season nearing, conversations surrounding potential premiers have begun amongst supporter groups.
A number of teams are within striking distance of success, leaving a group of teams scrapping it out to avoid the infamous wooden spoon.
2021 saw North Melbourne finish at the bottom of the table as they journeyed through a year of development and list turnover.
Collingwood also had a disappointing season with their highly publicised 2020 off-season trade period proved to have costly effects.
Whilst North Melbourne finished the season with just four wins and Collingwood managed only six, both sides could still avoid the undesired honour.
We take a look at the leading contenders to prop up the table by season's end.
2. Gold Coastย
2021 was yet another forgettable season for the Gold Coast Suns. As they, once again, underdelivered on their self-set goals, Stuart Dew will have his work cut out for him heading into 2022.
With last season characterised by their inability to contend with the top sides and close out tight contests, the Suns lost five matches by less than 12 points.
Still, it wasn't all negative. with young stars finally showing their worth at the top level. Most notably Wil Powell, Ben King, Noah Anderson, and Jack Lukosius continued to excite fans on a weekly basis.
Over the offseason, the Suns recruited athleticism and size as they picked up Mac Andrew from the national draft with pick five, and secured Mabior Chol from Richmond.
The Suns now have a good mix of youth and experience and could easily have a breakout season if all things go to plan.
