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 as his team charged. 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 set to face his September test. Assistant Burns said the team looks set for the finals stage. The Crows are no longer hiding last September's disappointment, yet those memories stay front of mind ahead of their finals fixture.