In such a hotly contested season, Round 24 is shaping up to be huge. The top eight is closer than ever and the matchups set for the final round of the season are monumental. The top eight and top four positions could all be on the line and a number of games involve a 'win or go home' scenario providing all the drama a footy fan could ask for.
The Dons and Pies clash will open on the Friday night and could have huge ramifications for Essendon as they may be fighting for a finals spot. The Dons currently sit one game outside of the top eight. Imagine the scenes if Essendon knocks off their arch-rivals and takes a finals spot. On the flip side, what if the Pies kicked Essendon out of finals the year after they did the same to the Blues? The drama writes itself.
The Hawks and Dockers, who will meet on Saturday, August 26, might not have much to play for at all, but given the recent form that both sides have found, it could make for a quality game of football. Both have rather young sides and a bright future ahead. Despite the disappointment that Freo fans have felt all year, one last convincing win could bring them some hope going into 2024.
The clash between the Suns and Kangaroos will take place on the same Saturday afternoon at the same time, where Gold Coast could push to finish the season between the ninth and 11th spot on the ladder. With games against Carlton and Sydney in the two rounds prior to last, a finals opportunity seems out of the question. A win would make for an optimistic end to what has been yet another disappointing year. North will be hoping the Eagles don't win another game and avoid another wooden spoon, can't see them winning another game this season...
Brisbane vs St Kilda at the Gabba could mean a lot for both sides. The Lions fighting for a home final and the Saints possibly needing a win for a finals berth. With Brisbane's recent finals track record away from home not being ideal, a home final would greatly aid Chris Fagan's side if they're to challenge for the flag.
The Cats and Dogs clash again could be finals-defining as most of the clashes over the weekend are. At the conclusion of Round 21, the Cats sit only two points out of the eight whilst the Bulldogs are equal with both St Kilda and GWS. These two sides could both potentially fill out the top eight prior to Round 24, however, what if there's only room for one?
The Eagles and Adelaide clash will draw some interest. West Coast possibly aiming for a win to avoid the wooden spoon, and the Crows could potentially be aiming to take a top-eight spot. It'll be tough for the Crows as they have Brisbane and Sydney prior to Round 24, but anything's possible.
Does John Longmire have any more tricks up his sleeve? Could the Swans win their last three games and make finals after a horror season in 2023? They could most definitely beat both Gold Coast and Adelaide in Rounds 22 and 23 respectively. A win at the SCG against the Demons to secure a top-eight spot? Bring the popcorn!
The final game of the round. Carlton vs GWS. This has everything a footy fan could want. If the Blues secure one more win prior to this game, they've just about made finals. Worst case scenario and they lose their next two and a win against the Giants is a must to make finals. It looks likely that the Blues won't experience heartbreak two years in a row, but if all the ducks line up, we could be in for an absolute belter to close out the season.
Here's how the final round of the season shapes up:
Round 24 AFL Fixture
Friday, August 25
7:50 PM: Essendon vs Collingwood, MCG
Saturday, August 26
1:45 PM: Hawthorn vs Fremantle, MCG
1:45 PM: North Melbourne vs Gold Coast, Blundstone Arena
4:35 PM: Brisbane vs St Kilda, Gabba
7:25 PM: Geelong vs Western Bulldogs, GMHBA
8:10 PM: West Coast vs Adelaide, Optus Stadium
Sunday, August 27
12:30 PM: Port Adelaide vs Richmond, Adelaide Oval
3:20 PM: Sydney vs Melbourne, SCG
6:10 PM: Carlton vs GWS, Marvel Stadium
All times AEST.ย
