As we approach the half way point of the footy season, and with a view towards September, here’s a wrap of where things currently sit…

Geelong – Not playing the dominant footy of early last season, but still the team to beat. The Cats are the most dominant side since Brisbane did the "3-peat". Injuries to Scarlett, Corey, and Ottens have hurt, but others like Hawkins, Kelly, and Hunt have stood up to fill the breach. Will go into the last week in September and shoot for 3 out of 4.

Fremantle – **** me! The Dockers have come good (and not before time). Mark Harvey said at the start of the season that it wasn’t out of the question that he had a line-up a’ la the baby bombers of 1993 on his hands. Harvey’s faith has come to fruition. The Pav is killing it, while VFL stalwarts Barlow and Silvagni have undergone ability transformations in the off-season to be starring at AFL level. While inexperience is a concern, believe me – the Dockers are the real deal.

Collingwood – The Pies have played some good footy this year. The likes of Harry O, Beams, Wellingham, and Sidebottom have all stepped up. Definite top 4 material. Results aside, it is hard to go past the fact Nick Maxwell is a tool.

St Kilda – Tipped to win it lthis year, but yet again proving to everyone why they are the most unsuccessful side in AFL history. A team of workhorses + Nick Reiwoldt who is a star (particularly in the eyes of most who frequent Commercial Road nightspots). I don’t rate St.Kilda. They will not win the flag this season, or any season. Forget them.

Western Bulldogs – No Johnson, No Aker, No Bob Murphy – all of a sudden the dogs are looking a little thin on the park. Again, another side who was tipped to do big things this season. Something tells me though that the Dogs have not put it all on the line this season and may be just saving a little something in reserve. Will finish top 4 and then watch this space…

Carlton – Tipped to slide in 2010 but have actually improved since last season. The likes of Jamison, Simpson, and Scotland have all had great season’s thus far, as have Setanta and his little helpers. Wins over Geelong and St.Kilda must surely put them in the hunt come September. Depth is their biggest issue - Must stay injury free to mix it with the big boys. Will finish in 5th – 6th position and get a home final with a clean bill of health.

Brisbane – Coach Michael Voss recruited key position strength into his side for 2010. Did he forget though that he has the oldest midfield in the AFL? The Lions are in desperate need of midfield class to support the likes of Black and Power. I reckon Voss has made a blunder not topping up his midfield, but time will tell. I’d expect the Lions to finish up between 6-8 position. A home final will determine whether they go into the second week in September.

Sydney – With a full list, the Swannies had some good results early in the season. With a couple of injuries to key players such as Bradshaw and Kennelly, they have fallen away. The Swans best is right up there, but over the course of a tough 22 rounds, they may be found wanting. Will be challenging for 8th spot come the end of the season.

Essendon – The most disliked side in the AFL. Other than bombers fans, you won’t see anyone singing in the street if they make it to September. Coach Knights is a moron. What were they thinking appointing him in the first place? Having got that off my chest, the Bombers have actually put together some more consistent performances of late to give them a chance of sneaking into the 8 come seasons end. God forbid…

Melbourne – After getting smacked in Round 1, the Dees strung together 6-7 weeks of really good footy. In Scully, Trengove, Garland, Frawley, and Gysberts… the future looks bright. Something tells me though that the Bailey’s young tyros are starting to tire. I don’t think they are quite yet top 8 material. Give it another season or 2.

Port Adelaide – Lucky to be in the AFL. The most forgettable side going around. Will finish bottom 5. Club great Warren Tredrea looks like he may have played his last match.

Hawthorn – Tipped by many to win the flag this season, The Hawks are proving why they are the most overrated side in history. Amidst the gloom, Luke Hodge having a season to remember. After a shocking start, amazingly, the Hawks could still find themselves in 7th or 8th position come season’s end.

North Melbourne – See Port Adelaide.

West Coast – Behind Hawthorn, the big disappointment of the season thus far. Murmurings starting to emerge that John Worsfold could be in trouble at seasons end…

Adelaide – A year to forget. Craig will blood youngsters for the remainder of the season. With an ageing list, the Crows will be rubbish this year and next.

Richmond – Awful. Enuf said.