By Rachel Tressler

AFL continues to grow in China with record attendance and 48 players including new recruits from Shanghai, Beijing, Ireland and Mexico pulling on the boots for round two of the Shanghai Australian Football League competition.

With new talent boosting numbers, round two got off to a great start with Shanghai Eagles continuing their dominance with a win over the North Shanghai Crows. Jason Grant took control of the forward line kicking five goals in a physical contest, with the crowd witnessing plenty of big hits.

The West Shanghai Dockers thought they were in with a chance against the weary Crows for game two, but underestimated the half-time speech of ‘Frog’ Lochiel, who inspired the Crows to demolish the Dockers by 34 points and claim their first victory of the season.

The day concluded with the much-anticipated Dockers v Eagles derby. The Dockers almost caused a scare thanks to the efforts of debut players and Ash Esakof taking a screamer, earning himself Qantas Mark of the Day.

The Dockers’ bad luck continued with Daniel Donga the unfortunate recipient of a spectacular bump from Lucas Kaz. The clash has not dampened Donga’s enthusiasm with the AFL convert ready to take the field again once his shoulder recovers.

The Eagles finished the round undefeated and joined spectators and players alike at the post-round function, with all eagerly awaiting round three on May 8.