{"id":592407,"date":"2026-04-08T01:22:15","date_gmt":"2026-04-08T01:22:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/592407\/"},"modified":"2026-04-08T01:22:15","modified_gmt":"2026-04-08T01:22:15","slug":"ranking-the-top-10-clutch-players-in-the-afl","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/592407\/","title":{"rendered":"Ranking the top 10 clutch players in the AFL"},"content":{"rendered":"


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Dying stages, the loud house packed, who do you want kicking for goal to win the game?<\/p>\n

Had former Port Adelaide star Robbie Gray<\/a> still been playing then the trustworthy forward-midfielder would have been in a battle for the number one spot with recently retired West Coast midfielder Dom Sheed’s flag-winning left foot.<\/p>\n

But since both are now out of the game, Zero Hanger decided to canvass the AFL<\/a> landscape in search of the league’s most clutch footballer. Both Essendon and Carlton players were banned from the list given the head noise that seems to be reverberating around the inner sanctums of both clubs.<\/p>\n

Below is the definitive list ranked 10-1 of who we would trust the most to seal the deal with a goal – whether on the run or set shot – late in the game.<\/p>\n

10Josh Dunkley (Brisbane)<\/p>\n

Part of the reigning premiers’ new-look trio of captains, Dunkley is one of the most underrated, earnest and dependable players in the league.<\/p>\n

Having been part of five grand finals, including three premierships, the 29-year-old is well accustomed to the big stage and the big moment. Built by a flag in his first season at the grade for the Western Bulldogs<\/a> in 2016.<\/p>\n

If the hard-working midfielder was to take a mark 40m out, on a 45 degree angle, late in the game, I’d back him in to slot the shot to the roar of the Lions’ faithful.<\/p>\n

His cool, calm and collected nature has helped his team find success wherever Dunkley has played.<\/p>\n


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