The 2024 AFL season brought its fair share of unforgettable moments, but nothing quite gets the fans on their feet like a massive hit on the field. Here are the top five biggest hits that had the crowd roaring and players earning their stripes:
1. Marcus Bontempelli vs. Patrick Cripps In a showdown between two of the league’s best midfielders, the Bulldogs’ Bontempelli collided with Carlton’s Cripps in a bone-jarring contest during Round 7. Both players went for a loose ball with incredible intent, and the clash sent shockwaves through Marvel Stadium. While the physicality was immense, both warriors shook it off and continued to battle for supremacy.
2. Charlie Dixon’s Forward Pressure Port Adelaide’s powerhouse forward made headlines in Round 12 with a crunching tackle on Collingwood’s Darcy Moore. Dixon’s aggressive approach highlighted why he remains one of the most feared forwards in the competition. The tackle resulted in a turnover that led to a game-defining goal for the Power.
3. Tom Stewart’s Defensive Masterclass Geelong’s reliable defender delivered a textbook bump on Sydney’s Isaac Heeney during a high-stakes clash in Round 18. Stewart timed his hit perfectly, breaking up a critical forward play and rallying his teammates. The Cats’ backline performance that night was a testament to Stewart’s leadership and physical prowess.
4. Maddy Prespakis’ Midfield Domination In the AFLW’s Round 9, Essendon’s Maddy Prespakis showcased her toughness with a ferocious tackle on Brisbane’s Emily Bates. The hit epitomized the intensity of the women’s game, with Prespakis’s ability to combine skill and strength leaving a lasting impression.
5. Bailey Smith’s Game-Changing Impact Known for his electrifying pace and flair, Western Bulldogs’ Bailey Smith added a crunching bump to his highlight reel in Round 22 against Melbourne. The impact not only disrupted Melbourne’s attack but also lifted the Bulldogs to a thrilling late-game surge that secured their spot in the finals.
Each of these moments reminded fans why the AFL remains one of the most exhilarating sporting codes in the world. Whether it’s the raw power of a tackle or the precision of a bump, these hits exemplified the bravery and skill required to compete at the highest level.
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