The Lions comprehensive victory drew an drew an average audience of 3.0 million (Ten’s broadcast averaged 2.6m in 2002) viewers and a peak of 3.5m to become the most watched sporting event in 2003, the most watched programme for the year in Melbourne and the second highest rating programme of the year nationally.
It was eclipsed only by the 1996 Grand Final between the Kangeroos and Sydney.
Said Network Ten’s general manager, sport, David White: "This truly national 2003 AFL Finals Series have been outstanding and this is the perfect finish to what has been a magnificent season that has seen television audience increases across the board."
