Conspiracies is dross. But, there are broader AFL narratives, or Dream Outcomes if you like, that are given some thought, because the AFL following public really wants certain things to happen.
Dare I say it, several years ago the 50 point comeback by the Dees, which saw things like seven metre long one-armed throws by Brad Green to Robertson running into an open goal.
Every time we play the Shi$boners we have to contend with a membership drive, or how !@#$ing good is Goldstein b/d/a.
A resurgent Tigers outfit knocking off the top teams.
A hugely popular Toilet being given 'free' reign and the easiest of draws.
The Bullies being good, but you know, still being the Bullies, but hey, you never know.
The Hawks are just disciplined superstars of the game - Buddy who?
And Roly's game plan isn't going to cut it - not if we can help it - cos !@#$ it's ugly to watch.
Isn't it good to see the Pies struggle and so on.
All of these are narratives that buy into public desire.