Top 5 AFL Grand Final Moments
Dermott Brereton's hit & heroics — 1989 VFL Grand Final
Hawthorn vs Geelong, 30 September 1989 at the MCG.
Geelong's Mark Yeates floored Dermott Brereton from the first bounce, leaving him with broken ribs and internal bleeding. Yet Brereton fought on, marked and goaled soon after, inspiring Hawthorn to a lead that just held out Gary Ablett Sr.'s nine-goal blitz. A legendary display of courage.
Why it stands out: the display of physical courage and leadership; the contrast between an almost overwhelming start by Geelong and Hawthorn's toughness; and Gary Ablett Sr.'s nine goals in a losing side.
Leo Barry's pack mark to win it — 2005 AFL Grand Final
Sydney Swans vs West Coast Eagles, 24 September 2005 at the MCG.
With seconds left and West Coast surging, Sydney's Leo Barry soared above the pack to clutch the match-saving mark. His grab sealed the Swans' first flag in 72 years and ended the AFL's longest drought.
Why it stands out: the moment captures all the tension of a long drought, the desperate game-saving clutch act, and the dramatic last-second resolve.
Essendon's last-quarter surge — 1984 VFL Grand Final
Essendon vs Hawthorn, 22 September 1984 at the MCG.
At three-quarter time, Essendon trailed Hawthorn by 23 points. The Bombers then unleashed a devastating final quarter, piling on nine goals to two. Led by Tim Watson, Leon Baker, and Bill Duckworth, they stormed home to win by 24 points (14.21.105 to 12.9.81). It was the club's first premiership in 19 years and ushered in an era of success under coach Kevin Sheedy.
Why it stands out: a true grand final turnaround, the comeback that broke a long drought and proved momentum can shift even on the biggest stage.
Adelaide's Darren Jarman magical quarter — 1997 Grand Final
Adelaide Crows vs St Kilda, 27 September 1997 at the MCG.
Darren Jarman turned the game with five goals in the last quarter, powering Adelaide to their maiden premiership. His accuracy and flair under pressure made this one of the most dazzling solo efforts in grand final history.
It was a moment of sheer turnaround, tactical brilliance, and individual brilliance.
Barry Breen's point for St Kilda — 1966's one-point premiership
St Kilda vs Collingwood, 1 October 1966.
With the scores tied late, Barry Breen's scrappy snap sailed through for a behind — just a single point, but enough to give St Kilda their only premiership to date. Proof that even the smallest moments can define history.
Why it stands out: so much hangs on such a small act; the difference of a point; the pressure of the final moments; the long history St Kilda has had without another flag.
Top 5 NRL Grand Final Moments
John Sattler plays on with a broken jaw — 1970 Grand Final
South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, 19 September 1970 at Sydney Cricket Ground.
Early in the game, Sattler was struck behind the play, breaking his jaw in multiple places. Rather than coming off, he famously said, "Hold me up so they don't know I'm hurt". He played out the full match, led his side, and helped Souths to a 23-12 victory.
The courage shown remains legendary.
Johnathan Thurston's field goal in extra time — 2015 Grand Final
Brisbane Broncos vs North Queensland Cowboys, 4 October 2015 at ANZ Stadium, Sydney.
A tight game, rising pressure, and then in extra-time, Thurston drops back and slots a field goal to break hearts and claim the Cowboys' first ever premiership, 17-16.
Thurston was described as "a bloody genius… the greatest player in the code's history… last night produced the greatest play in the greatest grand final".
The drama, the high stakes, the personal brilliance — Thurston has since been celebrated for clutch moments, but this one is among his greatest.
Scott Sattler's game-saving tackle — 2003 Grand Final
Penrith Panthers vs Sydney Roosters, 2003.
Late in the match, Roosters winger Todd Byrne appeared certain to score — a try that could swing momentum. But Scott Sattler chased back, made a desperate cover-tackle, stopping Byrne in full flight. That tackle is credited with turning the game, helping the Panthers to hold on for victory.
Canberra Raiders emerge victorious — 1989 Grand Final
Canberra Raiders vs Balmain (Tigers), 1989.
This is often remembered as one of the best finishes. The Raiders claimed the premiership with high tension to the final whistle. It's not just the result, but the build-up, the grit, and the emotional weight for Canberra supporters.
1978 Grand Final Replay – Manly vs Cronulla
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles vs Cronulla Sharks, replayed in 1978 after the first match was drawn.
In that replay, Manly emerged victorious 16-0. It was notable not just for the result but for the emotional rollercoaster — fans, players, the whole state in suspense first at the draw, then again for a second chance. There are moments in sport when the unexpected drags everyone along, and this Grand Final replay is one.
These moments resonate because they're about more than just scores or wins. They show:
Human character under pressure: pain, stakes, momentum swings. Whether it's Sattler playing with a broken jaw, Brereton standing up after a crushing hit, or Thurston holding nerves in extra time.
Narratives that bind communities and clubs: long droughts (Sydney 2005), first premierships (Cowboys 2015, Raiders 1989), underdog comebacks or iconic comebacks.
Defining moments in the sport's history: they often influence the culture — what fans remember, what players strive for. They become part of lore: quoted, rewatched, retold.
Emotional resonance: these aren't just wins or losses; they carry heartbreak, joy, and redemption. They shape what "grand final" means for each generation.
Relive history, then plan your own big day. Explore Melbourne's rooftop bars by the Yarra, Sydney's harbourside pubs with big screens, Brisbane's riverfront beer gardens, Perth's heritage hotels buzzing with fans and Gold Coast's coastal spots perfect for footy fever in our city guides.