The 2023 Toyota AFL Grand Final was a nail-biter that pitted the Collingwood Magpies against the Brisbane Lions. In a match that came down to the last minute, Collingwood emerged victorious with a final score of 12.18 (90) to Brisbane’s 13.8 (86), claiming their 16th VFL/AFL flag and tying with rivals Essendon and Carlton for the most premierships in competition history.

Key Moments

The game was a spectacle of remarkable highlights, brutal toughness, and brilliant goals. Bobby Hill of Collingwood was the star, kicking four goals from 18 disposals and winning the Norm Smith Medal for his career-best game. On the other side, Lions’ Charlie Cameron looked set to snatch the flag for Brisbane when he put his team four points ahead with just over five minutes to play.

Strategies and Tactics

Both teams showcased hard-nosed team ethos and individual brilliance. Collingwood’s coach, Craig McRae, and Brisbane’s coach focused on different strategies to gain an edge. McRae’s men were the kings of close contests, a skill they’ve honed over the past two years. Brisbane, on the other hand, tried to keep the ball at ground level in defense, unsettling Collingwood’s game plan for a while.

Turning Points

The game saw 10 lead changes, making it one of the most thrilling Grand Finals in recent history. One pivotal moment came when Collingwood’s Nick Daicos and Jordan De Goey teamed up to immediately grab back the lead after Cameron’s snap. Another turning point was a 50-metre penalty awarded to Steele Sidebottom, which he converted into a goal, giving Collingwood a 10-point lead with just over four minutes remaining.

Awards and Recognitions

Bobby Hill’s performance earned him the Norm Smith Medal, while Nick Daicos had a game-high 29 disposals and a goal, ending his special second season on a high note. Collingwood’s triumph also broke a 13-year drought without a premiership.

Conclusion

The 2023 AFL Grand Final will be remembered as one of the most thrilling in the history of the sport. Collingwood’s victory not only adds another flag to their collection but also places them at the pinnacle of AFL history. For Brisbane, the loss is a hard pill to swallow, but their young and talented squad shows promise for the future.

The AFL Grand Final 2023 has been a thrilling contest between the Collingwood Magpies and the Brisbane Lions. The half-time score stands at Collingwood 9.9 (63) to Brisbane 9.3 (57). The game has been a rollercoaster, with both teams showing moments of brilliance.

In the first quarter, Charlie Cameron of the Brisbane Lions was relatively quiet but came alive in the opening minutes of the second quarter. He kicked two goals and set up another, energizing the Lions. However, the star of the first half was undoubtedly Bobby Hill of the Collingwood Magpies. Hill took a spectacular mark, known colloquially as a “screamer,” and kicked four vital goals, providing a much-needed boost for his team.

The scores were level until just before half-time when a player named Crisp from Collingwood took a mark and nailed a long shot at goal after the siren, putting the Magpies ahead. The game has had its share of highlights, and there’s very little to separate the two teams as they head into the second half.

Thought-Provoking Questions and Insights

1. Bobby Hill’s Impact: How crucial will Bobby Hill’s performance in the first half be for the outcome of the game?
2. Charlie Cameron’s Comeback: After a quiet first quarter, Charlie Cameron fired up for the Lions. Can he maintain this momentum in the second half?
3. Close Contest: With the scores so close, what strategies should each team employ in the second half to secure a win?

The game is shaping up to be a classic, and fans are eagerly awaiting the second half to see who will come out on top.

COLLINGWOOD v BRISBANE LIONS

Saturday September 30, 2:30pm at the MCG

MAGPIES

B: N. Murphy, D. Moore, J. Howe
HB: B. Maynard, B. Frampton, I. Quaynor
C: S. Sidebottom, S. Pendlebury, O. Markov
HF: B. Hill, B. Mihocek, J. Elliott
F: B. McCreery, J. De Goey, J. Daicos
FOL: M. Cox, N. Daicos, J. Crisp

I/C: T. Mitchell, D. Cameron, W. Hoskin-Elliott, J. Ginnivan
EMG: P. Lipinski, J. Noble, F. Macrae, H. Harrison

IN: B. Frampton
OUT: P. Lipinski (Sub), D. McStay (injured)

LIONS

B: B. Starcevich, H. Andrews, D. Gardiner
HB: C. McKenna, R. Lester, K. Coleman
C: H. McCluggage, J. Dunkley, D. Zorko
HF: C. Cameron, E. Hipwood, C. Ah Chee
F: C. Rayner, J. Daniher, J. Bailey
FOL: O. McInerney, L. Neale, J. Berry

I/C: D. Robertson, L. McCarthy, J. Fletcher, D. Wilmot
EMG: J. Lyons, J. Tunstill, D. Fort, J. Payne

IN: None
OUT: J. Lyons (Sub)

Lachie Neale’s second Brownlow Medal win was a testament to his resilience, hard work, and adaptability. The Brisbane Lions’ midfielder was not the favorite to win the prestigious award, with much of the pre-event focus on other star players like Daicos, Bontempelli, Petracca, and Butters. However, Neale’s consistent performance throughout the season, especially during the final rounds, made him the last man standing with 31 votes.

The journey to this win was not smooth sailing for Neale. Late in the season, he faced health challenges, including a flu and minor injuries, which affected his form and the Lions’ performance. Despite these setbacks, Neale doubled down on his preparation, focusing on his touch, stoppage craft, and game vision. His hard work paid off, earning him seven votes in the last three rounds and making him the oldest Brownlow medallist in nearly two decades.

Neale’s win is even more remarkable considering his unconventional path to the AFL. Initially overlooked due to his size, he was the 58th pick by Fremantle in the 2011 draft. He started as a small forward but quickly evolved into a formidable midfielder. His ability to read the play and contribute immediately was evident early in his career, as he played in the 2013 grand final at just 20 years old.

The 2022 trade period brought significant changes to the Brisbane Lions, with the addition of former Bulldogs midfielder Josh Dunkley and talented youngster Will Ashcroft. These changes pushed Neale closer to the inside of the contest, requiring him to focus more on the inside part of his game. This shift in roles proved beneficial for both Neale and the Lions. Neale led the league in clearances and became the prime mover in scoring chains for his team.

Despite these individual accolades, Neale’s focus has always been on team success. His ability to make his teammates better is one of his most significant contributions to the game. This team-first mentality is perhaps why his impact is rated higher by umpires than by All-Australian judges, who may not have the same close vantage point during matches.

Neale’s win adds him to the exclusive list of players who have won multiple Brownlow Medals, a feat achieved by just 16 players in the history of the AFL. However, for Neale, the ultimate goal remains winning a premiership. His local junior footy club, the Kybybolite Tigers, has been waiting for a premiership since 1974, highlighting the rarity and value of such an achievement.

As the Lions prepare for the grand final, Neale’s focus is clear: to put on a good show for the supporters and the club. He envisions his teammate Harris Andrews and coach Chris Fagan holding up the cup at the end of the match, a fitting end to a stellar season.

In summary, Lachie Neale’s second Brownlow Medal win is a story of perseverance, adaptability, and a relentless focus on improvement. His journey from being an overlooked draft pick to becoming one of the AFL’s best midfielders is inspiring. With another Brownlow Medal around his neck, Neale is now setting his sights on the ultimate team prize: a grand final victory.

The Sydney Swans emerged victorious against the West Coast Eagles, marking the Eagles’ fourth consecutive loss. The Swans’ win was a team effort, but rising star Ally Morphett was particularly impressive, leading her team’s hitouts and gathering significant disposals and clearances. Swans co-captain Chloe Molloy was another standout, scoring two major goals that electrified the crowd. Despite a strong performance from Eagles captain Emma Swanson, the team couldn’t secure a win.

The Eagles initially struggled to score but managed to reduce the margin to 14 points just before halftime. Swanson’s brilliant snap goal in the third quarter breathed new life into the Eagles, but it wasn’t enough to tip the scales in their favor. Molloy briefly left the field due to a potential elbow injury but returned to contribute to the Swans’ win. The Swans eventually sealed their victory with a goal from Smith in the fourth quarter, extending their lead to two goals.

In another match, the Brisbane Lions maintained their undefeated record against North Melbourne, pulling off a thrilling two-point victory. Down by 18 points at halftime, the Lions made a remarkable comeback, scoring four goals to one after the main break. The match had its share of dramatic moments, including a free kick awarded to North’s captain Emma Kearney in the dying seconds, which fell short of being a game-changer.

St Kilda also claimed their first win of the AFLW season, defeating Collingwood in a stunning turnaround. Trailing by 26 points during the third quarter, the Saints rallied to secure a 12-point victory. The win relieved some pressure on St Kilda’s coach Nick Dal Santo and put a dent in Collingwood’s finals hopes.

Essendon surged into the top-eight with a 20-point win over Fremantle, marking their third win in four starts. Co-captain Bonnie Toogood was the star of the match, scoring two goals and gathering a game-high number of possessions. The win puts Essendon on track to make the top-eight, almost halfway through the season.

Gold Coast also managed to keep their season on track, surviving a scare from the Western Bulldogs to secure a four-point win. The match was a thrilling arm-wrestle, with both teams showing resilience and determination. The Suns’ victory was a team effort, but Charlie Rowbottom’s performance was particularly noteworthy.

Overall, the recent AFLW matches have been a showcase of talent, strategy, and resilience, making this season one of the most exciting in recent memory.

The thread on BigFooty Forum is buzzing with excitement and anticipation for the AFL 2023 Grand Final between the Collingwood Magpies (Pies) and the Brisbane Lions (Lions). The match is scheduled for Saturday, September 30th, at 2:30 pm EST at the MCG.

Get in on the Grand Final Discussion.

Fan Sentiments

The atmosphere in the thread is electric, with fans from both sides expressing their hopes, fears, and expectations. While Lions supporters are optimistic, citing their team’s recent form, Pies fans are equally confident, pointing to their team’s historical performance at the MCG. One comment encapsulates the mood: “The two best teams have made the big dance. Hopefully, it’s a great game. Good luck to both clubs and their fans.”

Predictions and Polls

The thread features various polls and predictions, with opinions divided almost evenly between the two teams. Some believe the match will be a close contest, while others predict a more decisive victory. A notable point is that the poll results show a slight tilt towards the Lions, contradicting the perception that the Pies are the favorites.

Key Players and Strategies

Discussions around key players like Moore and DeGoey for the Pies and their impact on the game are frequent. Fans debate whether missing key players in previous matches skewed the outcomes and what that means for the Grand Final. Strategies like capitalizing on inside 50’s and maintaining efficiency are considered crucial. One fan notes, “Pies game simply built for September. No faith at all in that pie forward line to kick over 12 goals, shame as a high-scoring shootout would be epic.”

Controversies and Debates

The thread isn’t without its controversies. There’s a debate about whether the Lions’ victories over the Pies in the regular season will have any bearing on the Grand Final. Some argue that those wins need to be contextualized, as the Pies were missing key players. Another point of contention is the use of individual songs for players, with some fans finding it “embarrassing” and not in the spirit of the game.

Conclusion

Can there ever be a real conclusion before the big day? The thread is a microcosm of the larger fan sentiment surrounding the AFL 2023 Grand Final. While both sets of fans are cautiously optimistic, there’s an undercurrent of tension and excitement. The discussions, debates, and polls suggest that this Grand Final is too close to call, and could very well become an instant classic. As one fan aptly puts it, “I really don’t know which way this one will play out. Exciting times.”

And so, as the clock ticks down to the Grand Final, the only certainty is the uncertainty, making this one of the most anticipated AFL Grand Finals in recent memory.

Brisbane

Updated: September 23

Collingwood

Updated: September 23

Richmond Football Club is pleased to announce that Adem Yze will be addressing the media on Friday, September 22, at 10.30 am. This press conference, to be held at the Swinburne Centre, Punt Road Oval, will also feature Richmond CEO Brendon Gale and President John O’Rourke. Members of the media are requested to arrive by 10.15 am for this significant announcement.

John O’Rourke, the President of Richmond, revealed that the board had unanimously accepted the recommendation of a panel consisting of key figures within the organization. The panel included Vice-President Henriette Rothschild, General Manager – Football Performance Tim Livingstone, General Manager – Football Talent Blair Hartley, Football Australia Performance Director Paddy Steinfort, and General Manager – Football of the Melbourne Storm, Frank Ponissi.

O’Rourke expressed his excitement about the future of the club, stating, “This has been a period of significant change for our Club, but with that comes a great sense of excitement and opportunity. We have no doubt that Adem is the right man to lead us into the future.”

Adem Yze, known for his extensive experience in coaching roles with the Hawthorn and Melbourne football clubs, was described by O’Rourke as an ideal fit for Richmond. O’Rourke further added, “Adem brings an enormous breadth of experience to the Club, having played key coaching roles during highly successful periods at both the Hawthorn and Melbourne football clubs. He has a deep understanding of the game and what drives on-field success from a strategic and cultural perspective. Adem has great energy and is highly competitive, and during the appointment process, it became increasingly obvious that he was a great fit for our Club. He was the ideal candidate, and we have no doubt our playing group will thrive under his coaching.”

Adem Yze himself expressed his enthusiasm for the new opportunity, saying, “This is a Club steeped in history and blessed with a magnificent supporter base. I feel very humbled to have been given this opportunity. I can’t wait to meet the playing group and start building towards the 2024 season.”

Yze’s remarkable career as a player included 271 games for Melbourne, winning the 2001 best and fairest award and earning a spot in the All Australian team the following year. As a coach, he joined Hawthorn in 2012 and played a pivotal role in their three consecutive premierships from 2013 to 2015. Yze returned to Melbourne in 2020 and contributed to their VFL/AFL premiership win in 2021.

Additionally, Yze has been involved in mentoring emerging Islamic coaches through the Bachar Houli Foundation, aligning with Richmond Football Club’s community programming.

John O’Rourke expressed his gratitude to all those involved in the coaching process and specifically acknowledged Andrew McQualter, who demonstrated his potential as a senior coach throughout the selection process. O’Rourke stated, “Andrew took the selfless decision to take on the interim role when Damien Hardwick left the Club, and he has handled himself with confidence and class. He continued to impress during the interview process, and I have no doubt he will be a future AFL coach.”

This appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Richmond Football Club, and fans eagerly anticipate Yze’s leadership in the seasons to come.

COLLINGWOOD v GWS GIANTS

Friday September 22, 7.50pm at the MCG

MAGPIES

B: N. Murphy, D. Moore, I. Quaynor
HB: B. Maynard, S. Pendlebury, J. Howe
C: S. Sidebottom, J. De Goey, J. Daicos
HF: B. Hill, B. Mihocek, P. Lipinski
F: J. Elliott, D. McStay, W. Hoskin-Elliott
FOL: M. Cox, B. McCreery, J. Crisp

I/C: T. Mitchell, D. Cameron, N. Daicos, O. Markov
EMG: J. Noble, F. Macrae, B. Frampton, J. Ginnivan

IN: N. Daicos
OUT: T. Adams (Injured), J. Ginnivan (Sub)

GIANTS

B: J. Buckley, S. Taylor, C. Idun
HB: L. Ash, H. Himmelberg, L. Whitfield
C: F. Callaghan, T. Green, J. Kelly
HF: T. Bedford, J. Riccardi, B. Daniels
F: D. Lloyd, J. Hogan, T. Greene

FOLL: K. Briggs, C. Ward, S. Coniglio

I/C: I. Cumming, H. Perryman, L. Keeffe, C. Brown
EMG: N. Haynes, R. Angwin, X. O’Halloran, B. Preuss

IN: None
OUT: X. O’Halloran (Sub)

Umpires: Brett Rosebury (8), Andrew Stephens (12), Hayden Gavine (14), Simon Meredith (21)

BRISBANE LIONS v CARLTON

Saturday September 23, 5.15pm at the Gabba

LIONS

B: B. Starcevich, H. Andrews, D. Gardiner
HB: C. McKenna, R. Lester, K. Coleman
C: H. McCluggage, J. Dunkley, D. Zorko
HF: C. Cameron, E. Hipwood, Z. Bailey
F: C. Rayner, J. Daniher, C. Ah Chee
FOL: O. McInerney, L. Neale, J. Berry

I/C: D. Robertson, L. McCarthy, J. Fletcher, D. Wilmot
EMG: J. Lyons, J. Tunstill, D. Fort, D. Joyce

IN: D. Gardiner
OUT: J. Payne (Injured), J. Lyons (Sub)

BLUES

B: A. Cincotta, J. Weitering, A. Saad
HB: C. Marchbank, M. McGovern, N. Newman
C: B. Acres, P. Cripps, O. Hollands
HF: T. De Koning, H. McKay, S. Docherty
F: L. Fogarty, C. Curnow, J. Motlop
FOL: M. Pittonet, A. Cerra, S. Walsh

I/C: J. Boyd, G. Hewett, M. Cottrell, J. Martin
EMG: D. Cuningham, B. Kemp, M. Kennedy, M. Owies

IN: H. McKay, J. Boyd, J. Martin
OUT: B. Kemp, M. Owies, M. Kennedy, D. Cuningham (all omitted)

Umpires: Nick Foot (2), Matt Stevic (9), Robert Findlay (23), Andre Gianfagna (27)

Brisbane

Updated: September 19

Carlton

Updated: September 19

Collingwood

Updated: September 19

GWS

Updated: September 19

As the AFL season reaches its climax, the preliminary finals promise high-octane action featuring the best four teams. Collingwood and Greater Western Sydney (GWS) are set to lock horns, while the Brisbane Lions prepare to host Carlton. These matchups not only offer a thrilling spectacle but also bring intriguing subplots and individual battles that could define the outcome.

The Magpies vs. The Giants: A Rivalry Renewed

Collingwood’s Brayden Maynard is free to play after a recent incident, and fans are buzzing about a potential showdown with GWS captain Toby Greene. The two have had their share of clashes, and a face-off in the preliminary final would be a sight to behold. Greene missed the 2019 preliminary final due to suspension and was absent in GWS’s loss earlier this year, adding more spice to this anticipated matchup.

But Greene isn’t the only threat in the Giants’ forward line. Jesse Hogan is having a career-best season, and the likes of Toby Bedford and Brent Daniels bring creativity and flair. Collingwood’s defense, led by Maynard and Darcy Moore, will have their hands full but are well-equipped to turn defense into attack swiftly.

The Magpies have been the team to beat this season, topping the table for most of the year. However, the Giants are on a hot streak, winning 11 of their last 13 games. Rookie coach Adam Kingsley has revitalized the team, and key players like Josh Kelly and Stephen Coniglio have been instrumental in their rise.

The Lions vs. The Blues: A Battle of Belief and Form

On the other side, the Brisbane Lions are in prime position, enjoying a 13-game winning streak at the Gabba. They face a resurgent Carlton side that has turned its fortunes around under coach Michael Voss. The Blues were under immense pressure mid-season but have since rallied, making it to the preliminary finals for the first time in 23 years.

Patrick Cripps and Sam Walsh have been standout performers for Carlton, and their midfield prowess will be tested against the Lions’ Tom Mitchell and Tom Green. Brisbane’s forward line, featuring Joe Daniher and Eric Hipwood, will be another area to watch, especially against Carlton’s strong defensive setup led by Jacob Weitering.

Both teams have their injury concerns. Brisbane’s Will Ashcroft is out for the season, while Carlton’s Harry McKay remains in health protocols. However, the Lions have the home advantage and a healthy list, making them slight favorites.

Tactical Nuances and Final Thoughts

Nick Daicos’ return for Collingwood could be a game-changer, given his vision and kicking ability. The Magpies will also need to contain the Giants’ Lachie Whitfield and Lachie Ash, who are crucial to their ball movement. For the Lions and the Blues, the midfield battle will be key, with both teams excelling in scores from stoppages.

As the preliminary finals approach, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Whether it’s the individual battles like Maynard vs. Greene or the overarching narratives like the Lions’ home advantage and Carlton’s resurgence, this weekend promises to deliver AFL at its finest. With grand final spots on the line, expect nothing less than fireworks on the field.

The third round of the AFLW season was nothing short of spectacular, with players from various teams stepping up and delivering remarkable performances. Jasmine Ferguson from North Melbourne was a defensive powerhouse against Geelong, effectively neutralizing Chloe Scheer and allowing her only three disposals and a single point. Emma Kearney, also from North Melbourne, was a force to be reckoned with, racking up 22 disposals and 12 intercepts.

In the midfield, Breann Moody of Carlton had a standout game, recording 24 hitouts and 16 disposals. Laura Gardiner from Sydney was another midfield dynamo, coming close to breaking the AFLW record with an astonishing 41 disposals. Tyla Hanks from Melbourne and Ellie Blackburn from the Western Bulldogs also had noteworthy performances, contributing significantly to their respective teams.

The forward line saw some thrilling action as well. Sophie Conway and Courtney Hodder from Brisbane were in scintillating form. Conway netted three goals, while Hodder added a spectacular one of her own. Kate Hore from Melbourne and Aine Tighe from Fremantle also had impactful games, adding valuable points to their teams’ tallies.

The interchange was not to be outdone, featuring strong performances from midfielders like Kiara Bowers of Fremantle and Monique Conti of Richmond. Anne Hatchard from Adelaide and Bonnie Toogood from Essendon also made their presence felt, contributing both in terms of disposals and leadership.

This round showcased the depth of talent in the AFLW, with players from multiple positions shining brightly. Whether it was in defense, midfield, or the forward line, the athletes gave it their all, making it a round to remember. The performances set the stage for an exciting remainder of the season, and fans can only expect the action to heat up in the coming weeks.

On a recent Sunday, Elise Read, a dedicated Brisbane Lions supporter, was excited to attend an AFLW match. However, her enthusiasm was short-lived when she was pulled out of the queue for wearing a “History is Calling” T-shirt, a garment supporting the Voice to Parliament referendum. A security guard informed her that the shirt was “too political” for the event, leaving her stunned and disheartened.

“I drove 40 minutes and purchased a ticket. Is this really happening?” Read questioned, bewildered by the incident. She was eventually allowed entry after changing her shirt, but the experience left her emotionally distressed.

The AFL and the Brisbane Lions were quick to apologize on Monday, acknowledging that the incident was a mistake. Gillon McLachlan, the AFL’s CEO, clarified that their policy against “commercial, political, religious or offensive signage or logos” did not apply to Read’s T-shirt. “People have the right to express their views through clothing at our games,” he stated.

The incident has sparked conversations about the role of political expression in sports, especially given the AFL’s rich Indigenous history. “Dakota Davidson, an Indigenous player, is our favorite. What if my shirt was a way to support her and other Indigenous players?” Read pondered.

The “History is Calling” T-shirt is part of the Uluru Dialogue’s campaign for the Voice to Parliament referendum. Even Linda Burney, the federal minister for Indigenous Australians, wore the shirt at a ‘Yes’ rally in Melbourne.

Another fan, Michelle, shared a similar experience. A foundation member of the club, she was also denied entry for wearing the same shirt. “I was shocked and angry,” she said, attributing the incident to a single security guard’s personal agenda.

The Brisbane Lions acknowledged the overreach, stating that an “overzealous contracted security guard” was responsible. “We have contacted the patrons to apologize,” a spokesperson confirmed.

This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing debate surrounding the Voice to Parliament referendum, which aims to give Indigenous Australians a say in matters affecting them. It also raises questions about the extent to which political expression should be allowed in sporting events, a domain often considered neutral ground.

The Brisbane Lions, who recently moved their home ground, had around 2,582 fans in attendance that Sunday. They defeated the Sydney Swans by 55 points, but the victory was overshadowed by the controversy, which will likely prompt a reevaluation of policies concerning political expression at AFL games.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – SEPTEMBER 15: Kysaiah Pickett of the Demons is dejected after the Demons were defeated by the Blues during the AFL First Semi Final match between Melbourne Demons and Carlton Blues at Melbourne Cricket Ground, on September 15, 2023, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

Embed from Getty Images

Brisbane

Updated: September 12

Carlton

Updated: September 12

Collingwood

Updated: September 12

GWS

Updated: September 12

Melbourne

Updated: September 12

Port Adelaide

Updated: September 12

The Australian Football League (AFL) finals series is a topic that never fails to ignite passionate debates and discussions among fans. One such lively conversation is taking place on BigFooty’s forum, where fans are dissecting the chances of various teams in the race for the 2023 flag. The thread is a melting pot of speculation, analysis, and fan opinions, offering a unique glimpse into the collective psyche of AFL enthusiasts.

join the discussion here

Key Teams in Contention

The thread reveals a general consensus that Melbourne and Collingwood are strong contenders for the Grand Final. Melbourne’s defense is highly praised, with many believing it could be the key to defeating Collingwood. However, Brisbane also emerges as a favorite, albeit with caveats. While the team is considered strong, some fans express concerns about Brisbane’s “mental blocks” when playing at the MCG, a factor that could potentially derail their finals campaign.

Factors Influencing the Race

Injuries are a recurring theme in the discussion. The absence of key players like Melksham for Melbourne and Daicos for Collingwood is causing some fans to reconsider their predictions. The thread also touches on the importance of home ground advantage, especially for teams like Brisbane and Port Adelaide. The stakes are considered high for these teams, with some fans suggesting that this could be Brisbane’s last chance to clinch the flag if they don’t capitalize on their current form.

Contrasting Opinions

While the thread has its share of agreements, it’s the contrasting opinions that add spice to the discussion. Some fans argue that the entire finals series could be a “coin flip,” especially when considering the impact of injuries and venue advantages. Others are more deterministic, believing that certain teams have a clear path to victory unless external factors, such as umpiring, come into play. The debate even extends to whether teams like Saints, Sydney, and GWS should be discounted entirely from the race.

The BigFooty thread on the race for the 2023 AFL flag serves as a microcosm of the larger fan community. It captures the essence of the uncertainties, hopes, and debates that make the AFL finals series an enthralling spectacle. While Melbourne, Collingwood, and Brisbane are the hot topics, the thread reminds us that in the world of sports, predictions are just that—predictions. And as the finals series unfolds, it will be interesting to see which of these fan forecasts come to fruition.

MELBOURNE v CARLTON

Friday September 15, 7:50pm at the MCG

DEMONS

B: J. Lever, A. Tomlinson, J. Bowey
HB: J. McVee, S. May, C. Salem
C: L. Hunter, C. Oliver, E. Langdon
HF: J. Jordon, B. Fritsch, C. Petracca
F: T. Sparrow, T. McDonald, A. Neal-Bullen
FOLL: M. Gawn, J. Viney, K. Pickett

I/C: C. Spargo, T. Rivers, J. Smith, K. Chandler
EMG: B. Grundy, M. Hibberd, B. Laurie, J. Schache

IN: A. Tomlinson, J. Jordon, C. Spargo
OUT: M. Hibberd (omitted), J. van Rooyen (suspension), A. Brayshaw (injured), B. Laurie (sub)

BLUES

B: B. Kemp, J. Weitering, N. Newman
HB: A. Cincotta, M. McGovern, A. Saad
C: B. Acres, P. Cripps, M. Cottrell
HF: S. Docherty, T. De Koning, M. Owies
F: L. Fogarty, C. Curnow, J. Motlop
FOLL: M. Pittonet, A. Cerra, S. Walsh

I/C: C. Marchbank, G. Hewett, D. Cuningham, M. Kennedy
EMG: P. Dow, O. Hollands, Z. Fisher, S. Durdin

IN: M. Kennedy
OUT: J. Martin (suspension), H. McKay (injured)

PORT ADELAIDE v GWS GIANTS

Saturday September 16, 7:40pm at Adelaide Oval

POWER

B: L. Jones, A. Aliir, D. Houston
HB: M. Bergman, T. McKenzie, R. Burton
C: Z. Butters, W. Drew, T. Boak
HF: W. Rioli, T. Marshall, J. McEntee
F: D. Byrne-Jones, C. Dixon, S. Powell-Pepper
FOLL: Lycett, Wines, Rozee

I/C: X. Duursma, O. Lord, J. Horne-Francis, K. Farrell
EMG: D. Williams, J. Finlayson, F. Evans, S. Hayes

IN: C. Dixon
OUT: J. Finlayson, D. Williams (both omitted)

GIANTS

B: J. Buckley, S. Taylor, C. Idun
HB: L. Ash, H. Himmelberg, L. Whitfield
C: F. Callaghan, T. Green, J. Kelly
HF: T. Bedford, J. Riccardi, B. Daniels
F: D. Lloyd, J. Hogan, T. Greene
FOLL: K. Briggs, C. Ward, S. Coniglio

I/C: I. Cumming, H. Perryman, L. Keeffe, C. Brown
EMG: N. Haynes, R. Angwin, X. O’Halloran, B. Preuss

IN: S. Coniglio
OUT: X. O’Halloran (omitted), N. Haynes (sub)

Darcy Moore, the captain of the Collingwood football team, recently missed training due to a hand issue. Despite this setback, he is expected to be available for the upcoming preliminary final. Moore consulted specialists at Epworth Hospital, where a cast was placed on his right hand to protect a tendon problem he managed during the qualifying final win over Melbourne. The cast is a precautionary measure advised by specialists to settle the tendons in his wrist.

Moore plays a critical role as a key defender for Collingwood. His importance is further highlighted when compared to fellow defender Nathan Murphy, who, although a strong overhead mark, stands at 192 centimeters, considerably shorter than Moore’s 203 centimeters. Moore’s performance was particularly strong in the recent win over Melbourne, solidifying his importance to the team’s success in the finals.

Before his strong return against Melbourne, Moore had missed the final two games of the home and away season due to a hamstring strain. The team expects him to have a light week on the track, benefiting from the extra week off before the preliminary final.

In addition to Moore’s expected return, Collingwood is set to welcome back Brownlow Medal contender Nick Daicos. The 20-year-old has been out of play since suffering a hairline fracture in his knee against Hawthorn in round 21. His return is timely, coinciding with the preliminary final and adding strength to the team’s lineup.

Regarding potential team changes, the outcome of the Brayden Maynard tribunal hearing will inform which player makes way for Daicos. If Maynard is suspended, Daicos would be the likely replacement. However, if Maynard is cleared to play, then Pat Lipinski and substitute Jack Ginnivan will face pressure to hold their spots on the team.

In summary, despite some injury concerns, Collingwood is gearing up strongly for the preliminary final. The return of key players like Darcy Moore and Nick Daicos could significantly bolster the team’s chances of success.

In a case that has sparked heated debate across the AFL community, Collingwood’s Brayden Maynard faces a tribunal hearing for his ban on rough conduct that led to Angus Brayshaw’s concussion. The tribunal, chaired by Jeff Gleeson and featuring Stewart Loewe and Jason Johnson, will convene at 4 pm AEST, where Maynard is expected to testify.

Collingwood will argue that Maynard’s actions were a “football act,” while the AFL contends that Maynard failed in his duty of care to Brayshaw. The case has been marked as a test case by the AFL’s Executive General Manager of Football, Laura Kane, and is expected to set a precedent for future conduct on the field.

David Mundy, a Fremantle legend, suggests that the AFL’s intervention indicates a shift in how the game will be adjudicated, moving away from past norms. Mundy also provided insights into what Maynard could have done differently to avoid causing serious health concerns.

Adding another layer to the debate, Hamish Brayshaw, Angus’ younger brother, accused the AFL of bias towards Collingwood. He believes that the AFL is keen for Collingwood to win a premiership due to their large fan base and that this could influence the tribunal’s decision.

Collingwood has two potential defenses. First, they could argue that Maynard was merely contesting the ball. Second, they could claim that Brayshaw’s actions were something Maynard could not have anticipated or controlled. Both defenses are expected to face strong opposition, especially from Brayshaw’s camp.

The tribunal’s decision will be closely watched, as it could influence future rulings on what constitutes a reportable offense. Given the high stakes and the divided opinions on the matter, the outcome is eagerly awaited and will have far-reaching implications for the AFL.