Dockers sailing at top of AFL ladder

Fremantle’s record start to the AFL season has shot them a game clear at the top of the ladder.

Adelaide’s shock 57-point drubbing on Sunday against the Western Bulldogs left the Dockers as the only unbeaten team after four rounds.

The Crows were red-hot favourites going into the Etihad Stadium clash thanks to their 3-0 start.

But ‘Dogs captain Robert Murphy was outstanding and Jake Stringer kicked six goals in the 18.17 (125) to 10.8 (68) boilover.

It is the first time in Fremantle’s history that they are unbeaten after four rounds.

They beat Sydney by 14 points on Saturday night in an epic Len Hall Anzac Day match.

Two-time defending premiers Hawthorn remain the favourites for this year’s flag.

TAB Sportsbet have them at $3.50, with the Dockers and Swans next in the market at $4.50.

The Bulldogs have also been impressive so far this season under new coach Luke Beveridge and have a 3-1 record.

Fremantle and the ‘Dogs are due to meet at Etihad Stadium in the contentious round-seven match on May 17.

As expected, Melbourne Victory have finished A League premiers and are likely to host the grand final.

Soccer officials wanted Etihad Stadium for the match, but the venue will most likely be AAMI Park if Victory are hosts.

Also on Sunday, North Melbourne scored their first win at Geelong in seven years.

The Kangaroos recovered from a slow start to beat the Cats 12.11 (83) to 9.13 (67).

It is Geelong’s second home loss this season and while they were undermanned, the result again raises questions about their prospects this season.

West Coast kept Brisbane winless and at the bottom of the ladder with a 53-point win at the ‘Gabba.

Luke Shuey added to the Eagles’ long injury toll with a rolled ankle, but they overwhelmed the Lions 17.16 (118) to 9.11 (65).

Port Adelaide beat Hawthorn by eight points on Saturday night, but the biggest talking point was what happened afterwards.

Video has emerged of an ugly confrontation between Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson and a misbehaving fan at the team hotel.

GWS belted Gold Coast by 64 points on Saturday, also leaving the Suns winless.

Collingwood beat Essendon by 20 points in their MCG Anzac Day blockbuster.

Carlton scored their first win of the season, beating St Kilda by 40 points in Wellington.

And Melbourne’s 32-point win on Friday night means a week of scrutiny for Richmond and their coach Damien Hardwick.

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