There were many fine Ben Hart moments throughout his career and many important individual performances in the grand finals. But this sensational effort earns extra points for its timing.
Hart and the rest of Adelaide’s defence was under enormous strain in the first half of the 1998 grand final, when North Melbourne kicked 6.15 to lead the Crows by 24 points at half-time. North wasted some chances but the margin most certainly would have been far wider had it not been for Hart’s efforts against a stream of opposition thrusts. For much of the first half, Hart had to fight one-on-one against Craig Sholl in the forward 50. Hart did not concede a goal, rebounded strongly, had 17 possessions and was only rated behind Andrew McLeod when the club champion votes were awarded.
This is the 18th nomination in a 19-part series to find the greatest individual performances by Crows footballers.
Previous nominations: Peter Vardy’s six-goal effort in the 1998 second semi-final; Darren Jarman’s 1997 grand final; Tony Modra’s 13 goals against Carlton in the opening round of 1994; Mark Ricciuto for Showdown VII in 2000; Jason Porplyzia’s courageous effort at the SCG in 2008; Shane Ellen’s surprise 1997 grand final; Shaun Rehn’s dominant wet weather game in July 1998; David Marshall’s AFL debut in Adelaide’s first game in 1991; Tony McGuinness for last minor round of 1993; Matthew Robran’s six goals in the 1998 preliminary final; Ben Rutten’s 2005 Showdown final; Ricciuto’s inspirational effort against Carlton in 2001; Mark Bickley versus Sydney in 1993; Modra’s matchwinning 10 goals v North Melbourne in 1993; Tyson Edwards’ 300th AFL game; Andrew McLeod’s 1997 and 1998 grand finals.
