Finals Week 1 began Saturday with a bang, and the action took no time to produce a twist. Sydney forward Tom Papley kicked five goals against Brisbane in a stunning individual display, taking control early. The injured Swans captain watched from the sidelines while the forwards took over. Brisbane lost in a stunning upset, and eight premiership players failed to fire.
Adelaide opens its finals campaign on a confident note, 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 stay front of mind ahead of their finals fixture.