Sportsday Which game are you most excited for in Round 1? (11.03.26)
Mar 11, 2026
Conversation about trade fallout and how media narratives shape player reputations. Debate over whether Essendon should have accepted draft pick offers. Preview of which Round 1 matches promise fireworks, including Geelong vs Fremantle and Collingwood vs Adelaide. Discussion of fan reactions at North Melbourne and betting market updates with player prop tips.
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Trade Saga Fatigue Among Hosts
- Gerard Healy and Ken Hinkley express frustration with the prolonged Zach Merrett trade narrative draining attention from footy.
- They want the saga to end so teams can focus on playing instead of ongoing media debate about his move.
Rebuild Priority Should Be Draft Picks
- Ken Hinkley argues Essendon made the wrong call trading assets for Zach Merrett during a rebuild.
- He says Essendon should have prioritised draft picks over an established player to align with club stage.
North Fans Still Hold Grudge Against Horne-Francis
- Gerard recalls North Melbourne fans still wanting to boo Jason Horne-Francis after he left the club.
- He notes Horne-Francis was booed early in his career and warns North Melbourne not to provoke him.