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Goal-Scoring in AFL: Where Are All the Goals Hiding?

AFL - AFL history - goal-kicking - player performance - sport psychology

Ever wondered why AFL goal-kicking is so inconsistent today? Join us as we unpack the mystery behind modern goal-scoring!

As the AFL continues to grow in popularity, fans are starting to notice a peculiar trend in goal-kicking among players. The once reliable ability to kick a bag of goals has descended into a state of inconsistency that has left spectators pulling their hair out and analysts scratching their heads. It used to be that a player’s presence on the field guaranteed a specific quota of goals, but today, that certainty has all but vanished, leading us to the question: what’s going on with goal-scoring in the AFL?

One might argue that the competition itself has evolved, becoming more physically demanding and strategically complex. Gone are the days when a player could simply rely on raw talent. Now, players are faced with a barrage of tactical approaches and defensive setups that can stifle their goal-kicking prowess. As a result, even the most talented forwards are struggling to find the back of the net consistently, leading fans to bemoan their waiver of faith in the goal-kickers of today.

Another factor contributing to the fluctuating goal tallies could be the psychological pressure that modern players face. The weight of expectation from fans, media, and the club rises steeply, and a single missed shot can lead to harsh scrutiny and endless memes. It’s almost as if players are not just competing against their opponents, but also against a looming cloud of overwhelming expectations that translates into nerves, which ironically, should be a deterrent to that desired goal-kicking consistency.

So, does this mean we should disperse with modern-day goal-kickers entirely? Not quite! In the whirlwind of low-scoring games, we also witness spectacular moments that light up the field, reminding us of why we love the sport. The AFL is undeniably packed with talented individuals who occasionally break through and shatter all perceived limitations, leaving us on the edge of our seats. Rest assured, while inconsistency might seem apparent, the thrilling magic of football remains alive.

Interestingly, it’s worth noting that over the last two decades, the average score per game has dwindled significantly, highlighting a stark contrast with the high-scoring affairs we used to enjoy. According to AFL statistics, during the 2010 season, teams averaged nearly 100 points, whereas recent years have seen that number drop to around 80 points. Additionally, famed goal-kickers of the past such as Tony Modra and Gary Ablett Sr. once made 100-goal seasons a common occurrence, a feat that has sadly become less frequent in today’s game. This rollercoaster ride of goal-kicking will leave AFL enthusiasts pondering: will we ever see the return of consistent goal-scoring? Time will tell!

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Image courtesy of "The Roar"

AFL Top 100: Modern-day goal-kicking has become so inconsistent ... (The Roar)

Just taking the field these days doesn't mean there will be any change in the number of goals a player kicks.

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