The 2022 VFL finals race has narrowed to just four clubs, three of which being from Queensland in a stunning outcome for the second-tier competition.
The past weekend's results have seen sunshine state rivals the Gold Coast Suns and Brisbane Lions progress to the penultimate week of the season, with Southport and Casey awaiting them respectively.
A two-goal win over Carlton on Saturday saw the Lions bounce back from their week one loss to the Sharks, with Brisbane now set to travel to Casey Fields to face the Demons.
That clash will take place on Saturday, with the game to commence at 1:10pm (AEST).
The following day will see the Sharks host fellow Gold Coast rivals in the Suns at Fankhauser Reserve in a third vs fifth showdown at 1:10pm (AEST).
Both matches will be broadcast live on the Seven Network in both Victoria and Brisbane, with the latter to be shown on channel 7Mate.Â
“We look forward to two fantastic contests this weekend which will determine who will play in the 2022 Smithy’s VFL Grand Final on Sunday September 18,” AFL Head of State League Competitions Jennie Loughnan said in a league statement.
“The match between Casey Demons and Brisbane Lions sees the first and second-placed sides on the ladder go head-to-head for the first spot in this year’s premiership decider.
“The second preliminary final will add another chapter in the building local rivalry between Southport Sharks and Gold Coast SUNS.
“Hosting a preliminary final in Queensland will be another historic moment for our competition and provides a wonderful opportunity to take the Smithy’s VFL to a wider audience.
“The timing of both matches is consistent with scheduling considerations that were communicated to clubs and stakeholders in advance of the finals series and provides participating teams with a fair fixture leading into the 2022 Smithy’s VFL Grand Final.
“On behalf of the AFL, I wish all players and clubs the best of luck for this weekend’s preliminary finals.”
The winner of both matches will qualify for the 2022 VFL grand final, which will take place at Ikon Park next Sunday, September 18.
Saturday September 10
Casey Demons (1st) vs. Brisbane Lions (2nd)
Casey Fields, 1:10pm (AEST)
Sunday September 11
Southport Sharks (3rd) vs. Gold Coast SUNS (5th)
Fankhauser Reserve, Gold Coast, 1:10pm (AEST)