It was the most anticipated ruck battle of the year.
The two top-ranked talls in the competition, Fremantle’s Aaron Sandilands and North Melbourne’s Todd Goldstein, faced off at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
Sandilands dominated the contest winning 48 hit-outs to Goldstein’s 28.
Freo’s four-time All Australian had a big first term, applying plenty of pressure and offering a tall target.
All of his 14 touches for the match were contested possessions.
He booted two goals and made five tackles.
However, Goldstein snuck forward in the final minute and marked.
He goaled from the pocket to seal a heartbreaking win.
Sandilands said skill errors opened the door to allow the Kangaroos back into the contest.
“A few costly errors got North back in the game and we couldn’t quite get it done,” he said.
Sandilands said it was disappointing to watch his opponent kick the final goal but was full of praise for Goldstein.
“He’s a quality player and it was massive challenge for Griff (Jon Griffin) and I,” he said.
“He’s had a great year.
“It’s always disappointing when your opponent kicks a goal.”
