Why this was one of footy’s saddest rounds

April 22, 2026 — 11:51am

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Sam Darcy’s body gave way. One of the best and most athletic players in the competition, he collapsed to the ground, his body crumpling beneath him. He grabbed at his knee then punched the ground in an anguished cry. He’d wrecked his knee.

It was sad, but not shocking. Another week, another injury. Shrug. Shit happens.

His Western Bulldogs teammate Tom Liberatore copped a knock to the head. Again. He might come back from the concussion in a fortnight, but also might not. Two seasons ago he was jogging in a game when he lurched forward and face-planted to the ground. No one could identify a hit to precipitate the fall, but his numerous previous concussions were noted. He needed the approval of a panel of specialists to be allowed to return to play and expose himself to more head knocks.

A query must linger now over when or if he returns. A question will also hang asking, why? Why submit yourself to this again? And then, when and if he does come back, breath will be held each time he goes near a pack.

On Sunday Melbourne’s Harrison Petty, like Liberatore two years ago, suddenly went woozy. He tried to kick a ball out from full-back only to miss his target. Petty wobbled and dropped to a knee. Two teammates held him up with arms both supportive and protective. They waved for help to get him off the ground.

The Adelaide captain, Jordan Dawson, could not play. He sat in the stands, a public figure trying to privately grieve the awful, sudden death of his brother.

In a reserves match on Saturday, Lucas........

© The Age