To perform well in a final is one thing in footy, while to perform well in a Grand Final is another calling only some across the game's history have risen to.

The prestigious Norm Smith Medal is awarded to these players who are up to the challenge and make sure that they are forever immortalised for their heroic play.

Before Fremantle faces Brisbane in this week's Grand Final, I decided to take a look at this century's best Grand Final performances and rated them from 1-10 based on how impactful and memorable they were.

5James Hird

History of the ANZAC Day clash
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 25: Kevin Sheedy coach of the Bombers and James Hird captain and Anzac Day Medallist hold the Anzac Day Cup after winning the round five AFL Anzac Day match between the Collingwood Magpies and the Essendon Bombers at the Melbourne Cricket Ground April 25 2004 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Mark Dadswell/Getty Images)
*** Local Caption *** Kevin Sheedy;James Hird

Essendon, 2000 v Melbourne

Losing only one game during the year, Hird and his Bombers brigade couldn't have closed out an almost perfect season more fittingly in a dominant final game of the season.

Hird led from the start with a goal out of the stoppage before his side erupted in the second quarter with six goals that opened the game out to a blowout win for the Bombers. Hird finished the game with another goal to add to his 29-disposals that was enough for him to be awarded the Norm Smith.

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