THE TWO greatest players of this era were outstanding at the weekend and were among the first picked in the round 12 Team of the Week, brought to you by AccorHotels.
Firstly, Lance Franklin. What a superstar. He's 32, two games away from hitting the 300 milestone and despite groin and hamstring injuries having plagued him in recent months, when he's on, it's almost impossible to stop him.
He looked in vintage touch as Sydney upset West Coast. Whether it was brushing off Tom Cole and slotting it through on the run or booting it from long range after the siren, Franklin produced more of the moments that make him the most exciting player in the AFL.
Then there was Gary Ablett. In a match with Richmond billed as a blockbuster, the 35-year-old once again delivered in that forward role he's looked so comfortable in.
He ended up with 24 disposals and two goals, and as good as those numbers are, they don't reflect his influence. The dual Brownlow medallist just doesn't waste the football.
View this post on InstagramThree Brownlows between them The Dream Team getting it done #StandProud #WeAreGeelong
Adelaide defender Rory Laird would be among the most consistent contributors in the competition. In his 150th game, Jordan Roughead kept Melbourne forward Tom McDonald quiet, while Dane Rampe similarly nullified West Coast spearhead Josh Kennedy. Excelling alongside him was Jake Lloyd. Young Carlton backman Jacob Weitering is producing a promising season and Jarrod Harbrow couldn't have done much more as the Suns lost their eight-straight game.
In a losing effort, Josh Kelly was valiant for Greater Western Sydney. Patrick Cripps might have put in the performance of the season in inspiring Carlton to victory over Brisbane. Jared Polec once again showed his wares for North Melbourne, taking advantage of Ben Cunnington's work in the clinches. Max Gawn's game was statistically off the chart, albeit against a sore Brodie Grundy. Adelaide mid Brad Crouch was instrumental in helping the Crows overcome GWS
Sydney had Lance Franklin and Tom Papley firing up forward against the Eagles. Tom Hawkins, Gary Ablett and Gryan Miers formed their own handy combination as Geelong thumped the Tigers. Jaidyn Stephenson was on fire against Melbourne. If not for wayward conversion, he would've bagged more than three goals.
Mark that down as yet another top-notch outing from Tim Kelly. Moving back to the midfield has worked a treat for Jack Ziebell. The Blues sent Ed Curnow to a red-hot Lachie Neale in the second half and that moved worked brilliantly. Despite being part of a losing side, Giants inside bull Tim Taranto starred against the Crows.
