Who would have thought that when the 2020 fixture was released that this was how the year would have ended up?

You would have been laughed across the Murray River if you were to suggest to the fervent footballing public of Victoria that many of them would not see a single game live this season.

A straight jacket would have been tailored to your measurements should you have suggested that the Grand Final would be played under lights at the Gabba in October.

However, due to arrival of an unforeseen and, as of yet, untameable virus, the game, like the rest of the world, was forced to make compromises.

With these changes came a fresh batch of terms to enter the footy lexicon, as well as the array of previously unthought of headlines that appeared on mastheads everywhere.

So despite a season that provided challenges for everyone involved in the game, it has also supplied many moments (both good and bad) that will live long in our memories.

Here are the top 10 headlines from a season unlike any before it.

3. Dusty dominates another big dance

21 disposals. 10 contested. Three tackles. Five Clearances. Four Goals.

When it came time for the 2004 Norm Smith medalist Byron Pickett to present this season's award, it was only ever going to be โ€˜Dusty'.

With the Tiger's backs against the wall just before half time, Martin flew onto a loose ball and under immediate pressure, snapped the first of his majestic quartet of majors. At this stage, Richmond were 15 points in Geelong's arrears.

By the time Martin had roved the ball deep in the forward pocket, shrugged off a Dangerfield tackle and snapped his fourth goal, the Tiger's had an unassailable five goal lead.

It sounds somewhat hyperbolic to suggest that Martin won the game off his own boot, but with an unrivalled ability to appear and perform when necessary, the statement is not too far wide of the mark.

Three-time Premiership teammate Jack Riewoldt best summed up Martin's importance to the club's burgeoning dynasty.

โ€œHe's sort of like our fire escape, really, in terms of when we need someone, we just pull the lever and he's able to turn up,โ€ he said onย Fox Footy.

Having become the first player ever to win the medal three times and with Ablett's boots now hung, Martin is without doubt the best footballer still plying his trade in the game today.