The midfield is often considered the heart of the AFL, housing some of the league's most prominent and celebrated players. This crucial position frequently garners significant accolades, showcasing the standout performances that often define individual seasons. The players in the midfield not only play a vital role in winning possession of the ball but also in strategically controlling field position, which can ultimately dictate the outcome of a match.
Midfield units typically serve as a hallmark for their respective teams; successful teams generally boast strong midfields, while those that struggle often reflect weaknesses in this area.
In 2025, Zero Hanger has compiled a ranking of all 18 AFL teams based on the effectiveness of their midfield groups.
18. West Coast
Under Andrew McQualter’s leadership during his inaugural season, West Coast, the youngest team in the league, faced significant challenges, managing to secure only one victory throughout the year. The squad appeared to be physically overmatched, particularly in contested situations. Notably, McQualter himself described his team's performance in these critical contests as 'pathetic,' a sentiment that was clearly substantiated by the statistics.
The Eagles recorded the lowest figures for both contested possessions and total clearances across the league. Furthermore, they ranked at the bottom in terms of scoring from stoppages and had the poorest rate for winning the first possession. Alarmingly, the team's top four ball winners were all general defenders, highlighting a significant concern regarding their struggles to maintain territorial control in 2025.
On a slightly positive note, former number one draft pick, young talent Harley Reid emerged as a bright spot for the team. He led the club in clearances and ranked second for contested possessions, demonstrating his ability to shine even under increased scrutiny from opposing teams.
