Clarkson sacked by North Melbourne despite season improvement

North Melbourne sacked Alastair Clarkson with one year left on his contract, despite the club improving to 14th place with nine wins this season.

Why it mattersClarkson is one of AFL's most successful coaches, so his sudden firing despite improving results raises questions about how long coaches should be given to build a team.

AustraliaThe sacking affects North Melbourne's search for a new direction and ripples across the AFL coaching landscape as teams assess their own leadership.

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Five Swans suspended for rest of season, police inquiry continues

Five Swans players are suspended for the rest of the season for breaching club standards. The suspensions stay in place regardless of what a police investigation finds.

Why it mattersThe suspensions weaken Sydney's premiership chances. The club is standing firm on behavior standards independent of legal outcomes.