This year has been a year like no other - but there are plenty of moments worth celebrating with 2020 now nearing the end.
We’re counting down 20 of the best football moments from the year – across our AFL and AFLW seasons.
Best of 2020: 20-18
Best of 2020: 17-15
Best of 2020: 14-12
11: Captain Courageous
First-year skipper Marcus Bontempelli was ‘Captain Courageous’ against the Sydney Swans in round four.
He was best on ground on the night – but let’s put that part aside for now.
Two big marks in the second term showcased Bontempelli’s bravery and skill.
The first was at the defensive end, running back fearlessly with the flight of the ball to mark, before crashing into an oncoming Isaac Heeney.
The second was inside 50, again back with the flight into a pack. And he kicked the goal, too.
10: Marshall law
It doesn’t get much better than slotting your first career goal with your first kick – just ask Dani Marshall.
Making history as the first American to play AFLW, Marshall’s debut in the opening round against St Kilda couldn’t have been scripted better.
Skipper Ellie Blackburn sold some candy before bursting inside-50 and sending the ball towards the goal-square.
With little time to react, Marshall quickly got boot to ball for a moment she’ll never forget.
9: Trade triumph + draft delight
It has been a productive post-season for list boss Sam Power and his team, giving Bulldogs supporters plenty of reasons to be optimistic about 2021.
Through the trade period the Bulldogs made three moves, as star midfielder Adam Treloar, experienced ruckman Stefan Martin and classy forward Mitch Hannan all came in.
Josh Dunkley also remained a Bulldog, despite strong interest from Essendon.
Then on draft night, Next Generation Academy product Jamarra Ugle-Hagan was selected with pick one – becoming the first Bulldog at one since 2003 (Adam Cooney) and first Indigenous player at one since 1998 (Des Headland).
