Latest news with #TakeMeHome
Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Sophie Ellis-Bextor's life with five sons and why she looks at their phones
Singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor has opened up about parenting and the secret to her 20-year marriage with her musician husband As a mother of five boys, Sophie Ellis-Bextor is happy she can talk openly to her sons about difficult issues like toxic masculinity. The Murder On The Dancefloor singer's children are aged from six to 21 and, although she keeps an eye on their mobile phones, she says she does not try to demonise them. She tells Good Housekeeping magazine: 'I've always had a lot of faith in my boys. We've openly chatted about toxic masculinity for a long time. My eldest is very articulate about these things, so none of it was new to my house.' Toxic masculinity is a hot topic following the recent success of the hit Netflix show Adolescence starring Stephen Graham and Owen Cooper. READ MORE: Jamie Theakston praises 'fantastic' Amanda Holden for her support amid his gruelling cancer battle Stephen plays father Eddie Miller, who watches armed police burst into his home to arrest his 13-year-old son Jamie (Owen) over a bullying incident. It has sparked conversations around misogyny among young boys online and the radicalisation of young men, with its creators discussing the topic in Parliament in April. Sophie, 46, is mum to 21-year-old Sonny, Kit, 16, Ray, 13, Jesse, nine, and six-year-old Mickey and says she has honest conversations with them about the subject. She said: 'Sometimes people have an idea of what boys are like, as if they're a different species. As I far as I'm concerned, I'm raising five people who happen to be boys. "I keep an eye on (their mobile phone screen time), because that's parenting, but if you start demonising things, you shut down communication. Then you're like those parents in the 1950s who made kids burn their rock 'n' roll albums.' Disco queen Sophie is married to musician Richard Jones, 46, and said her mum – former children's TV presenter Janet Ellis – is partly to thank for their happy 20-year union: 'When we got married, we'd already had our first baby. My mum said, 'Make sure you always choose each other over anything else, even the kids.' She was right. Even though the kids might roll their eyes if they see us hugging or whatever, they are happy that we are happy. We have fun as a family, too. Last year, they came with us for a lot of the tour.' Pop star Sophie burst on to the scene in 2000 with her number one hit Groovejet (If This Ain't Love), a collaboration with DJ Spiller She has sold millions of albums worldwide, and her other chart successes included the Cher cover Take Me Home and Murder On The Dancefloor – which has enjoyed a recent resurgence thanks to the movie Saltburn. Sophie said of the revival: 'The whole thing was glorious.' Sophie got the nation dancing throughout the Covid lockdown with her Instagram kitchen discos and recalled: 'It felt so good to have that community.' This year she is returning with new music. Her album Perimenopop is out on September 12 and Sophie says that it's her way of showing the world there is no age limit on pop music. She added: 'There's still this idea that only young people make pop music. As soon as I had the new album title, I felt like, 'Now I can literally be myself.' This album is about poking fun at this gloomy chapter and the narrative around it that women should be quietening down and becoming invisible. I don't feel like that at all.'
Time of India
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Ironheart Part 1: What to expect in Episode 1? Here's release date, global release timings, episode schedule, complete episode list and where to watch
Part 1 Release Date, Time and Where to Watch Global Release Timings Complete Episode List and Titles Live Events What to Expect in Episode 1? Episode Schedule Production Delays FAQs (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel The Marvel Cinematic Universe is introducing a new character through the upcoming series Ironheart. The show will be released in two parts on Disney Plus. The first three episodes will be available on June 24, 2025. The rest will arrive the following week. The story follows Riri Williams as she takes her first steps toward becoming a will begin with a three-episode premiere. All three episodes will be released together on June 24, 2025, at 6 pm PT, 9 pm ET and 10 pm Brazil Time on Disney Plus in the United States. This format allows viewers to watch multiple episodes at once, rather than waiting for weekly global release timings for the first three episodes are different due to time zone changes. The release time on June 25 is 2 am UK Time, 3 am Central Europe Time, 6:30 am India Time, 11 am Australia Time and 1 pm New Zealand 1 of Ironheart will include a total of six episodes. Each episode will run between 40 and 60 minutes. The first episode is titled Take Me Home, and it sets the tone for the rest of the season. The episode list is as follows:Take Me HomeWill the Real Natalie Please Stand Up?We in Danger, GirlBad MagicKarma's a GlitchThe Past is the PastRiri Williams, an MIT student, builds armor inspired by Tony Stark. She faces challenges in the tech world and confronts a tech-based release format for Ironheart does not follow the usual weekly schedule. Instead, the season is split into two parts. The first part includes Episodes 1 to 3 and drops on June 24, 2025. The second part, which includes Episodes 4 to 6, will be released one week later on July 1, schedule gives viewers the option to watch the season in two sessions. It is a strategy that allows the show to maintain momentum while giving audiences a quick way to catch was originally expected to be released earlier. Filming ended in November 2022. However, the series was delayed due to the Hollywood strikes in 2023. These strikes impacted several MCU projects, which caused a shift in Disney Plus's release schedule. Despite the delays, the show is now ready for streaming. All six episodes will be exclusive to Disney are six episodes in total. Three episodes were released on June 24 and the remaining three on July 1, is only available on Disney Plus. You must have a subscription to watch all six episodes.
Time of India
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘Ironheart' release date: when Marvel's new TV series premieres on Disney+ and how to watch
'Ironheart' release date and episode schedule confirmed Cast, plot, and streaming options for Marvel's new TV series Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel Disney+ has officially announced the release strategy for, Marvel's new TV series centered on Riri Williams , a teenage genius first introduced in. The six-episode series will debut in two separate drops on the date is June 24, 2025. The first half of the season, including Episodes 1 through 3, will be available to stream at 6 p.m. PST. These include the premiere episode titled 'Take Me Home,' followed by 'Will The Real Natalie Please Stand Up' and 'We In Danger, Girl.'Also read: Is Iron Man back in Marvel's 'Iron heart'? Trailer, release date & what to expect The second half of the series will go live on July 1, 2025, and will include Episodes 4 to 6. Titles for the latter episodes include 'Bad Magic,' 'Karma's a Glitch,' and the season finale, 'The Past Is the Past.' Whether or not the series will continue into a second season has not yet been produced by Ryan Coogler and follows Riri Williams, played by Dominique Thorne, as she returns to her hometown of Chicago and attempts to create technology that rivals Tony Stark's Iron Man suit. The series picks up after the events ofAlongside Dominique Thorne,features Anthony Ramos as Parker Robbins, also known as 'The Hood,' a character who introduces a supernatural angle to the show's plot. Other cast members include Lyric Ross, Alden Ehrenreich, Regan Aliyah, Manny Montana, Matthew Elam, and Anji series continues Marvel's expansion into streaming content, following mixed reception to recent Disney+ releases such asand. While earlier shows likeandreceived strong critical acclaim, more recent entries have faced challenges amid broader discussions about superhero fatigue and franchise read: Disney Plus June 2025 Releases: Here's list of upcoming shows and TV series also launches amid Marvel Studios' efforts to reenergize the brand. Upcoming film releases include, slated for July 25, 2025, starring Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Joseph Quinn. Recent projects such asand(formerly) have underperformed compared to earlier be available exclusively on Disney+. Subscription plans start at $9.99/month with ads, or $15.99/month ad-free. Annual ad-free plans are priced at $159.99. Bundle packages with Hulu, Max, and ESPN+ are also available, starting at $10.99/month.
Sydney Morning Herald
21-06-2025
- Sport
- Sydney Morning Herald
Goals, grabs and gutsy efforts: These are your team's most memorable moments so far in season 2025
Brisbane Lions Best moments: The reigning premiers took their time clicking into gear, but they've produced some highlights. Their comeback from 32 points down to beat Geelong was explosive, capped by a memorable running goal from sub Bruce Reville. And let's not forget the way the Lions players showed their love and admiration for coach Chris Fagan in celebrating his 200th game. Looking forward to: The rise of the Ashcrofts has been a sight to behold as brothers Will and Levi grow into match winners as part of a midfield that is already star-studded. I can't wait for their face-off against the Daicos brothers and Collingwood at the MCG on August 2. Grand final preview, anyone? Something I loved: All the Charlie Cameron goal celebrations. His dance after kicking a goal against Hawthorn during Sir Doug Nicholls round was fitting, his three goals in three minutes weren't bad either, while I still love him revving the motorcycle. Lions fans still clearly love singing along to Take Me Home, Country Roads any time Cameron scores a goal at home. Carlton Best moments: Harry McKay's courage to step back and deal with his mental health meant he missed games early in the season, but his return climaxed with a match-winning goal against St Kilda in round nine. The outpouring of love and support was stirring. Looking forward to: Blues fans are still holding hope for a second-half resurgence, like they got from their team in 2023. So many of those players are still there and there are plenty of winnable matches coming up. Something I loved: George Hewett has enjoyed a career-best year for the Blues. His goal in the final minutes sealed the surprise win over Geelong in round seven. He's tough, tireless and keeps turning up. It was a win and a moment for Blues fans to savour. Collingwood Best moments: Steele Sidebottom's renaissance has been eye-catching, headlined by his best-on-ground effort on Anzac Day and his winning goal against the Bulldogs. The league-leading Pies have had plenty of highlights from Ned Long's emergence to more Daicos brilliance. Looking forward to: Jordan De Goey's return. The premiership winner has battled an Achilles issue, but is training again, and with a flag up for grabs, his match-winning talents could be enough to push the Magpies to the ultimate prize. They may well need him late in the season, as they face a tough run home with games against the Lions, Hawks, Crows (away) and Demons in the final month. Effectively, their finals campaign will start early. Something I loved: Oleg Markov's Bunnings to Marvel Stadium performance against North. Craig McRae dragged him from outside the squad into the team and he starred in an undermanned team. His goal celebration for his baby son Lenny and post-game interview just topped it off. Essendon Best moments: The wins over Melbourne, Sydney and Port Adelaide were highlights but Nate Caddy's career-best display against the Lions was a league-wide statement of intent; his goal of the year contender won't be forgotten either. Zach Reid's defensive work in the wins over the Dees and Swans showed his promise when fit. Looking forward to: More Caddy, more Isaac Kako, more of the time. They are the future and the present. A healthy run from Reid, Mason Redman and Jordan Ridley in defence would be a godsend too. Something I loved: First-gamer Angus Clarke relished his MCG debut against Richmond kicking three goals, while the smiling South Australian country boy's post-game interview alongside dad Stuart was one for the ages. Fremantle Best moments: Shai Bolton and Andrew Brayshaw's desperate efforts led the Dockers to an emotional win on the Gold Coast last month. Coach Justin Longmuir's celebrations post-game showed what it meant to him after speculation over his future. It was Freo at their best, and the question is, can they keep it going? Looking forward to: With five wins on the trot, the Dockers now have their future in their own hands and the chance to solidify their spot in the top eight over the next two rounds against the Saints and Swans. Their fixture gets a bit tougher after that, but some testing matches leading into September should harden them for the challenges ahead, and the influential Hayden Young is due to return in that stretch of games. Something I loved: Luke Jackson's future seems a recurring story this season, but his superb play both in the ruck and when pushing forward has been eye-catching. Michael Frederick's speed and pressure play has also been a highlight. Both are just cracking the surface of what they can do. Geelong Best moments: The Bailey Smith comeback tour has taken all before it. Match-winning displays, classy goals, headbands, spicy comments that spawn wild reactions, a few minor indiscretions and even a fireside chat with the AFL boss. And we are only at round 15, what will he do in the run to the finals? Looking forward to: More Patrick Dangerfield up forward. Danger's reinvention as a match-winning goal-kicker has been fun to watch. Injury fears mean he will likely rest for a game here and there, but he has more games like his Melbourne and Adelaide performances to come. Something I loved: The speedy production of Max Holmes feels like it has been a little overshadowed by Smith and Dangerfield, but 40 touches against Gold Coast and his three-bounce, running goal against the Bulldogs showed he is class. Gold Coast Best moments: The Suns' win over Hawthorn in May had all kinds of meaning. They beat a contending side, won in Touk Miller's 200th game and continued their winning record in Darwin. John Noble gaining more than 1000 metres topped off a statement win. Like Noble, the Suns have come a long way. Looking forward to: A home final in Darwin … any final. The Suns are on track for the finals, maybe even the top four. A Darwin final seems out of the question, but the Suns are so good up north, they should ask the question. Something I loved: Mac Andrew's brash, high-flying performances, have showcased his unique assets. I also love how Nick Holman and Ben Long just put their heads down and make things happen. Andrew's last-minute spoil to secure a win against Adelaide was powerful, even if his post-game antics were a little silly. Meanwhile, Long and Holman's effort plays continue to set the standard for their teammates. Greater Western Sydney Best moments: Callan Ward's heartbreaking knee injury brought out all the feelings as Lachie Whitfield lovingly comforted his teammate. But true to his way, Ward dragged himself up and gave his side a stirring three-quarter-time address. They beat Richmond as a result. Looking forward to: More Brent Daniels and, hopefully, more Stephen Coniglio. Daniels returned last round from injury and should only get fitter from here, he's always been an X-factor for the Giants. Coniglio has battled injury in recent weeks, his leadership will be vital down the stretch. Something I loved: Win or otherwise, Sam Taylor and Jack Buckley continue to dominate in the air with their intercept possessions and marks. They are often looked over but rarely kicked over. Hawthorn Best moments: Jack Ginnivan's ball-showing taunt to the Bulldogs stands out to many fans, especially when he backs up the showmanship, but veteran Jack Gunston's 28 goals have been a pleasant surprise, including three late majors in the win over the Demons. Looking forward to: As goes Will Day, as go the Hawks. The injured midfielder can't return quick enough. The Hawks say round 20 is their aim and they'll be counting down the days. Something I loved: Sam Butler returning against the Bulldogs in June after 418 days out following a broken leg in the VFL last April. Perserverance is a special trait, Butler clearly has it. Melbourne Best moments: Kysaiah Pickett has gone to a new level this season, winning the ball in the middle and still kicking goals and pressuring at an elite level. He's become a matchwinner for the Dees, most notably in the memorable win over Brisbane at the Gabba in round 10. Looking forward to: A second half run to the finals. Maybe Melbourne have done their dash, but they have a bunch of winnable games on the home stretch, especially if they can improve their efficiency up forward. They bring the drama, but they could still make the top eight. Something I loved: Max Gawn leading from the front. Gawn is still the top ruckman in the AFL and among the leading skippers. The Dees are a rollercoaster club, but Gawn's consistency stands out, even when he makes errors like his late-game turnover against Collingwood. North Melbourne Best moments: Roos skipper Jy Simpkin played through the grief of losing his beloved nan and his side saluted for him in the round 10 win over Richmond. Simpkin shed tears post-game but did his family and team proud. Looking forward to: If George Wardlaw and Paul Curtis can avoid injury and suspension, North fans would be overjoyed. Both match winners, these two have simply missed too much footy. I'd also love to see more Finnbar Maley. He brought spirit and physicality to the side when he was introduced. Something I loved: Luke Davies-Uniacke's re-signing was widely celebrated by the Roos faithful after watching for years as players, such as Jason Horne-Francis, walked out on the club and other outside free agents spurned generous offers to join the club. It's no fun to watch star players constantly join the same big clubs. Port Adelaide Best moments: Jason Horne-Francis' furious reaction to taunts from his former club North Melbourne and the efforts of captain Connor Rozee, vice captain Zak Butters and coach Ken Hinkley to calm him down was captivating in round seven. They hung on for the win. Looking forward to: A fitting send-off for Hinkley in his final games with wins on the field and full acknowledgement for his role in turning the Power's fortunes around. He deserves both in full measure. Something I loved: Willie Rioli had faced some unfortunate off-field dramas this season, some of his own making and some not. But I loved the way he took extra time for fans at Manuka Oval for pictures and photos, so much so that his team had to send out someone to get him for the team song. He's a fan favourite for a reason. Richmond Best moments: The young Tigers have won hearts this season, even while losing games. Tom Brown's match-saving tackle against West Coast showed why. His quote post that he was going to get 'smoked in the review' if he hadn't made the tackle just topped it off. Looking forward to: The Tigers would love to see No.7 pick Josh Smillie get his debut, but injury has stopped him so far. There's plenty of optimism about his promise as a playmaker and goal-kicking threat, while it would be a blessing seeing defender Josh Gibcus return from his latest injury. Something I loved: Top pick Sam Lalor has wowed the Tigers faithful from his first few training sessions right up to now, including the round one win over Carlton. Seth Campbell has gone to a new level this season and deserves his flowers. St Kilda Best moments: Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera's evolution into one of the AFL's elite ball-users, and Jack Macrae's re-emergence as an elite ball-winner have been compelling to watch. But Marcus Windhager's tagging job on Kysaiah Pickett in the round 12 win over Melbourne in Darwin showed the application and dedication Saints fans are looking for. Looking forward to: A Jack Higgins Coleman Medal. Could the Saints small forward run over the top of the big guns? Heading into round 15, he was on 30 goals from 13 games, 14 off leader Jeremy Cameron. Pipe dream? Maybe, but if Higgins can get more shots on goal, you couldn't rule him out. Something I loved: More big marks and celebrations from Mitch Owens. I love the bow, a nod to his Japanese heritage, and I hope we see Owens bring it out some more. I also love his attack on the ball when it is there to be marked. He's special. Sydney Best moments: Riley Bice's rise from excavator driver in Albury to AFL player is a feel-good story. He's played 12 games since his debut, his match-winning display against North in round four was beautiful to see. Looking forward to: Some more home wins, hopefully. North Melbourne and Essendon are both due at the SCG in coming weeks, and the Swans faithful deserve the chance to go home happy. Something I loved: It was a decade in the making but defender Joel Hamling kicked the first goal of his AFL career in the clash with GWS on May 5. He marked, was bowled over but still got up and converted under pressure. He's since goaled against Carlton and Melbourne. West Coast Best moments: From the heartbreak of Adam Selwood's untimely death, the Eagles' win over St Kilda on May 18 snapped an 11-game losing streak and came when supporters needed it most. Oscar Allen's emotional words post-game should ring out long after the match is forgotten. Looking forward to: The draft. I'm joking, but I'm not the only person who thought it. There are some winnable games to come, with GWS and Richmond flying west in July. A mark of the year flyer from Harley Reid or Liam Ryan would be a treat, too. Something I loved: Key defender Reuben Ginbey has faced a trial by fire, but his battle with Jeremy Cameron in round 12 was fun viewing. 'He got the chocolates,' Cameron said post game. Cameron finished with five goals, but four of them came in the Cats' last-quarter surge, after Ginbey had won a number of earlier contests.
The Age
21-06-2025
- Sport
- The Age
Goals, grabs and gutsy efforts: These are your team's most memorable moments so far in season 2025
Brisbane Lions Best moments: The reigning premiers took their time clicking into gear, but they've produced some highlights. Their comeback from 32 points down to beat Geelong was explosive, capped by a memorable running goal from sub Bruce Reville. And let's not forget the way the Lions players showed their love and admiration for coach Chris Fagan in celebrating his 200th game. Looking forward to: The rise of the Ashcrofts has been a sight to behold as brothers Will and Levi grow into match winners as part of a midfield that is already star-studded. I can't wait for their face-off against the Daicos brothers and Collingwood at the MCG on August 2. Grand final preview, anyone? Something I loved: All the Charlie Cameron goal celebrations. His dance after kicking a goal against Hawthorn during Sir Doug Nicholls round was fitting, his three goals in three minutes weren't bad either, while I still love him revving the motorcycle. Lions fans still clearly love singing along to Take Me Home, Country Roads any time Cameron scores a goal at home. Carlton Best moments: Harry McKay's courage to step back and deal with his mental health meant he missed games early in the season, but his return climaxed with a match-winning goal against St Kilda in round nine. The outpouring of love and support was stirring. Looking forward to: Blues fans are still holding hope for a second-half resurgence, like they got from their team in 2023. So many of those players are still there and there are plenty of winnable matches coming up. Something I loved: George Hewett has enjoyed a career-best year for the Blues. His goal in the final minutes sealed the surprise win over Geelong in round seven. He's tough, tireless and keeps turning up. It was a win and a moment for Blues fans to savour. Collingwood Best moments: Steele Sidebottom's renaissance has been eye-catching, headlined by his best-on-ground effort on Anzac Day and his winning goal against the Bulldogs. The league-leading Pies have had plenty of highlights from Ned Long's emergence to more Daicos brilliance. Looking forward to: Jordan De Goey's return. The premiership winner has battled an Achilles issue, but is training again, and with a flag up for grabs, his match-winning talents could be enough to push the Magpies to the ultimate prize. They may well need him late in the season, as they face a tough run home with games against the Lions, Hawks, Crows (away) and Demons in the final month. Effectively, their finals campaign will start early. Something I loved: Oleg Markov's Bunnings to Marvel Stadium performance against North. Craig McRae dragged him from outside the squad into the team and he starred in an undermanned team. His goal celebration for his baby son Lenny and post-game interview just topped it off. Essendon Best moments: The wins over Melbourne, Sydney and Port Adelaide were highlights but Nate Caddy's career-best display against the Lions was a league-wide statement of intent; his goal of the year contender won't be forgotten either. Zach Reid's defensive work in the wins over the Dees and Swans showed his promise when fit. Looking forward to: More Caddy, more Isaac Kako, more of the time. They are the future and the present. A healthy run from Reid, Mason Redman and Jordan Ridley in defence would be a godsend too. Something I loved: First-gamer Angus Clarke relished his MCG debut against Richmond kicking three goals, while the smiling South Australian country boy's post-game interview alongside dad Stuart was one for the ages. Fremantle Best moments: Shai Bolton and Andrew Brayshaw's desperate efforts led the Dockers to an emotional win on the Gold Coast last month. Coach Justin Longmuir's celebrations post-game showed what it meant to him after speculation over his future. It was Freo at their best, and the question is, can they keep it going? Looking forward to: With five wins on the trot, the Dockers now have their future in their own hands and the chance to solidify their spot in the top eight over the next two rounds against the Saints and Swans. Their fixture gets a bit tougher after that, but some testing matches leading into September should harden them for the challenges ahead, and the influential Hayden Young is due to return in that stretch of games. Something I loved: Luke Jackson's future seems a recurring story this season, but his superb play both in the ruck and when pushing forward has been eye-catching. Michael Frederick's speed and pressure play has also been a highlight. Both are just cracking the surface of what they can do. Geelong Best moments: The Bailey Smith comeback tour has taken all before it. Match-winning displays, classy goals, headbands, spicy comments that spawn wild reactions, a few minor indiscretions and even a fireside chat with the AFL boss. And we are only at round 15, what will he do in the run to the finals? Looking forward to: More Patrick Dangerfield up forward. Danger's reinvention as a match-winning goal-kicker has been fun to watch. Injury fears mean he will likely rest for a game here and there, but he has more games like his Melbourne and Adelaide performances to come. Something I loved: The speedy production of Max Holmes feels like it has been a little overshadowed by Smith and Dangerfield, but 40 touches against Gold Coast and his three-bounce, running goal against the Bulldogs showed he is class. Gold Coast Best moments: The Suns' win over Hawthorn in May had all kinds of meaning. They beat a contending side, won in Touk Miller's 200th game and continued their winning record in Darwin. John Noble gaining more than 1000 metres topped off a statement win. Like Noble, the Suns have come a long way. Looking forward to: A home final in Darwin … any final. The Suns are on track for the finals, maybe even the top four. A Darwin final seems out of the question, but the Suns are so good up north, they should ask the question. Something I loved: Mac Andrew's brash, high-flying performances, have showcased his unique assets. I also love how Nick Holman and Ben Long just put their heads down and make things happen. Andrew's last-minute spoil to secure a win against Adelaide was powerful, even if his post-game antics were a little silly. Meanwhile, Long and Holman's effort plays continue to set the standard for their teammates. Greater Western Sydney Best moments: Callan Ward's heartbreaking knee injury brought out all the feelings as Lachie Whitfield lovingly comforted his teammate. But true to his way, Ward dragged himself up and gave his side a stirring three-quarter-time address. They beat Richmond as a result. Looking forward to: More Brent Daniels and, hopefully, more Stephen Coniglio. Daniels returned last round from injury and should only get fitter from here, he's always been an X-factor for the Giants. Coniglio has battled injury in recent weeks, his leadership will be vital down the stretch. Something I loved: Win or otherwise, Sam Taylor and Jack Buckley continue to dominate in the air with their intercept possessions and marks. They are often looked over but rarely kicked over. Hawthorn Best moments: Jack Ginnivan's ball-showing taunt to the Bulldogs stands out to many fans, especially when he backs up the showmanship, but veteran Jack Gunston's 28 goals have been a pleasant surprise, including three late majors in the win over the Demons. Looking forward to: As goes Will Day, as go the Hawks. The injured midfielder can't return quick enough. The Hawks say round 20 is their aim and they'll be counting down the days. Something I loved: Sam Butler returning against the Bulldogs in June after 418 days out following a broken leg in the VFL last April. Perserverance is a special trait, Butler clearly has it. Melbourne Best moments: Kysaiah Pickett has gone to a new level this season, winning the ball in the middle and still kicking goals and pressuring at an elite level. He's become a matchwinner for the Dees, most notably in the memorable win over Brisbane at the Gabba in round 10. Looking forward to: A second half run to the finals. Maybe Melbourne have done their dash, but they have a bunch of winnable games on the home stretch, especially if they can improve their efficiency up forward. They bring the drama, but they could still make the top eight. Something I loved: Max Gawn leading from the front. Gawn is still the top ruckman in the AFL and among the leading skippers. The Dees are a rollercoaster club, but Gawn's consistency stands out, even when he makes errors like his late-game turnover against Collingwood. North Melbourne Best moments: Roos skipper Jy Simpkin played through the grief of losing his beloved nan and his side saluted for him in the round 10 win over Richmond. Simpkin shed tears post-game but did his family and team proud. Looking forward to: If George Wardlaw and Paul Curtis can avoid injury and suspension, North fans would be overjoyed. Both match winners, these two have simply missed too much footy. I'd also love to see more Finnbar Maley. He brought spirit and physicality to the side when he was introduced. Something I loved: Luke Davies-Uniacke's re-signing was widely celebrated by the Roos faithful after watching for years as players, such as Jason Horne-Francis, walked out on the club and other outside free agents spurned generous offers to join the club. It's no fun to watch star players constantly join the same big clubs. Port Adelaide Best moments: Jason Horne-Francis' furious reaction to taunts from his former club North Melbourne and the efforts of captain Connor Rozee, vice captain Zak Butters and coach Ken Hinkley to calm him down was captivating in round seven. They hung on for the win. Looking forward to: A fitting send-off for Hinkley in his final games with wins on the field and full acknowledgement for his role in turning the Power's fortunes around. He deserves both in full measure. Something I loved: Willie Rioli had faced some unfortunate off-field dramas this season, some of his own making and some not. But I loved the way he took extra time for fans at Manuka Oval for pictures and photos, so much so that his team had to send out someone to get him for the team song. He's a fan favourite for a reason. Richmond Best moments: The young Tigers have won hearts this season, even while losing games. Tom Brown's match-saving tackle against West Coast showed why. His quote post that he was going to get 'smoked in the review' if he hadn't made the tackle just topped it off. Looking forward to: The Tigers would love to see No.7 pick Josh Smillie get his debut, but injury has stopped him so far. There's plenty of optimism about his promise as a playmaker and goal-kicking threat, while it would be a blessing seeing defender Josh Gibcus return from his latest injury. Something I loved: Top pick Sam Lalor has wowed the Tigers faithful from his first few training sessions right up to now, including the round one win over Carlton. Seth Campbell has gone to a new level this season and deserves his flowers. St Kilda Best moments: Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera's evolution into one of the AFL's elite ball-users, and Jack Macrae's re-emergence as an elite ball-winner have been compelling to watch. But Marcus Windhager's tagging job on Kysaiah Pickett in the round 12 win over Melbourne in Darwin showed the application and dedication Saints fans are looking for. Looking forward to: A Jack Higgins Coleman Medal. Could the Saints small forward run over the top of the big guns? Heading into round 15, he was on 30 goals from 13 games, 14 off leader Jeremy Cameron. Pipe dream? Maybe, but if Higgins can get more shots on goal, you couldn't rule him out. Something I loved: More big marks and celebrations from Mitch Owens. I love the bow, a nod to his Japanese heritage, and I hope we see Owens bring it out some more. I also love his attack on the ball when it is there to be marked. He's special. Sydney Best moments: Riley Bice's rise from excavator driver in Albury to AFL player is a feel-good story. He's played 12 games since his debut, his match-winning display against North in round four was beautiful to see. Looking forward to: Some more home wins, hopefully. North Melbourne and Essendon are both due at the SCG in coming weeks, and the Swans faithful deserve the chance to go home happy. Something I loved: It was a decade in the making but defender Joel Hamling kicked the first goal of his AFL career in the clash with GWS on May 5. He marked, was bowled over but still got up and converted under pressure. He's since goaled against Carlton and Melbourne. West Coast Best moments: From the heartbreak of Adam Selwood's untimely death, the Eagles' win over St Kilda on May 18 snapped an 11-game losing streak and came when supporters needed it most. Oscar Allen's emotional words post-game should ring out long after the match is forgotten. Looking forward to: The draft. I'm joking, but I'm not the only person who thought it. There are some winnable games to come, with GWS and Richmond flying west in July. A mark of the year flyer from Harley Reid or Liam Ryan would be a treat, too. Something I loved: Key defender Reuben Ginbey has faced a trial by fire, but his battle with Jeremy Cameron in round 12 was fun viewing. 'He got the chocolates,' Cameron said post game. Cameron finished with five goals, but four of them came in the Cats' last-quarter surge, after Ginbey had won a number of earlier contests.
