Deadline day: Ryder still in limbo, pick No.1 on the table
Big deals still to be done on final day of NAB AFL Trade Period.
Clubs will gather at Etihad Stadium for the final day of the NAB AFL Trade Period with a number of deals – including a potential trade for pick No.1 – set to drop before the siren sounds.
While many clubs have concluded their trade activity for 2014, anything can happen on the final day and phones are sure to be ringing with last-minute offers before the 2pm deadline.
St Kilda and Greater Western Sydney appear certain to meet and negotiate on a trade that would send selection No.1 to the Giants in exchange for a package of picks.
The prospect of GWS chasing another quality, experienced player with its bevy of picks shouldn't be ruled out on the final day either.
The clock will be ticking on talks between Port Adelaide and Essendon who are attempting to end a deadlock in talks over ruckman Paddy Ryder.
If Ryder doesn't make his way to the Power through a trade, which appeared unlikely as the clubs met for mediation at AFL House on Wednesday, he has the option to pursue a release from his contract at a grievance tribunal.
Ruckmen Jonathan Giles and Daniel Gorringe are also in limbo as they seek moves to Essendon and Port Adelaide respectively, with their direction hinging on the Ryder talks.
The Bombers remain in the mix to secure Brownlow medallist Adam Cooney from the Western Bulldogs, but North Melbourne will also be active in talks to trade in the midfielder.
Mitch Hallahan has been considering an offer from Gold Coast, and the Suns and Hawks could sort out a deal on Thursday. Luke Lowden, however, looks increasingly likely to stay at the Hawks.
GWS defender Sam Frost and Bulldogs pair Jason Tutt and Liam Jones will also have their futures settled on Thursday.
If trades aren't completed for Sydney Swans pair Tim Membrey and Shane Biggs, they will get to the Saints and Bulldogs respectively through the pre-season draft or as delisted free agents.
Leading by only four points late in the third quarter, Geelong ran rampant in the final term for a 49-point win
AFL R8 match report: Cats pounce late to overrun Roos
Geelong has extended its winning streak against North Melbourne, defeating the Kangaroos by 49 points at GMHBA Stadium
VFL R6 match report: Young ruck stars but Roos fall in close contest
Young ruckman Taylor Goad was an imposing presence in the middle as North Melbourne continued its 2026 VFL campaign with a close loss to the Geelong Cats on Saturday afternoon
VFL R6 team: Key talls among five inclusions
North Melbourne has made five changes ahead of Saturday's VFL curtain-raiser against Geelong at GHMBA Stadium.