Finals Week 1 began Saturday on a dramatic note, and the action took no time to produce a twist. Sydney forward Tom Papley kicked five goals against Brisbane with a dominant one-man performance, taking control early. The injured Swans captain looked on from the sidelines while the forwards took over. Brisbane lost in a stunning upset, and eight premiership players were rated poorly.
Adelaide opens its finals campaign with serious intent, with coach Matthew Nicks entering his September test. Assistant Burns said the team looks set for finals football. The Crows are moving past last September's disappointment, yet those memories remain a theme ahead of the finals opener.