Biggest comeback wins in VFL/AFL history - Top 10
The article explores the most significant comebacks in VFL/AFL history, highlighting five remarkable matches that have taken place since 2000. Essendon's unprecedented comeback from a 69-point deficit against North Melbourne in 2001 remains the largest in history. More recently, Collingwood made headlines in 2024 by overcoming a 54-point deficit to defeat the same opponent by a single point. The thrilling list includes games across decades with various teams showcasing resilience and determination, underscoring the unpredictable and exciting nature of VFL/AFL.
- Five of the top 10 comebacks occurred this century
- Essendon's 69-point comeback against North Melbourne in 2001 remains a record
- Collingwood's recent 54-point comeback win in 2024 makes it into the top 10
In 2001, Essendon came back from 69 points down to beat North Melbourne. (Getty)
What are the biggest comeback wins in VFL/AFL history?
Five of the top 10 biggest comeback wins in VFL/AFL history have been recorded this century and Collingwood made the list in 2024, with Magpies clawing back a 54-point deficit to beat North Melbourne by one point.
Essendon still holds the record from 2001 when the Bombers came back from 69 points to defeat North Melbourne in what was the seventh-highest-scoring game in the league's history.
Biggest VFL/AFL comeback wins - Top 10
| Winner | Opponent | Round/Year | Deficit | Winning Margin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essendon | North Melbourne | Round 16, 2001 | -69 | 12 |
| Hawthorn | St Kilda | Round 12, 1999 | -63 | 13 |
| Collingwood | St Kilda | Round 10, 1970 | -60 | 7 |
| Hawthorn | Geelong | Round 6, 1989 | -56 | 8 |
| St Kilda | Western Bulldogs | Round 6, 2015 | -55 | 7 |
| St Kilda | Hawthorn | Round 2, 1937 | -55 | 13 |
| Collingwood | North Melbourne | Round 14, 2024 | -54 | 1 |
| West Coast | Geelong | Round 10, 2006 | -54 | 3 |
| Brisbane | Geelong | Round 13, 2013 | -52 | 5 |
| Footscray | Essendon | Round 5, 1978 | -52 | 17 |
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