THEY'RE games that live long in the memory. Incredible comebacks are topics of conversation years after they happen, and fans never forget the details of games in which their team has recovered from a seemingly impossible position. Essendon's comeback from 69 points down against North Melbourne in 2001 remains the biggest comeback in VFL/AFL history, but two clubs – Greater Western Sydney and Port Adelaide – set or broke their own records in 2024.
Plus, Carlton and Collingwood produced comebacks that rank among the top two in their proud history. Check out your club's five biggest ever comeback wins below. 42 points v Port Adelaide, round seven, 2000 39 points v North Melbourne, round nine, 2013 36 points v St Kilda, round 13, 2021 34 points v Hawthorn, round nine, 1995 33 points v Richmond, round 14, 2012 The Showdown in 2000 will live long in the memory of Adelaide supporters after a famous comeback.
When Nick Stevens slotted a long goal for the Power in the third quarter, they were seven goals up and cruising towards victory, but the Crows had other ideas. Inspired by Mark Ricciuto (41 disposals and four goals) and Andrew McLeod (25 and one), Adelaide charged home, kicking six goals to one in the final quarter on the way to a memorable win. Port Adelaide held a 42-point advantage over fierce rivals Adelaide in round seven, 2000, until Mark Riccuito, Andrew McLeod and co lifted to take the bragging rights 52 points v Geelong, round 13, 2013 51 points v Hawthorn, round 1.
