Thursday saw the release of the 2022 AFL fixture and had fans of all creeds clamoring to see where and when their sides are set to do battle.
While there are plenty of marquee matches that all AFL fans will be excited about, grand final replays, ANZAC Day, Dreamtime and Queens Birthday are just a handful of the big games already signposting the upcoming season.
Given players and coaches have changed clubs, milestones and early absences have all resulted in some intriguing matches, this means that there are some unexpected games that could be some of the most can't miss football of the season.
Ahead of the Christmas break, we have had a look at some of the big matchups and moments that you will want to keep an eye on in 2022.
5. SPS vs Carlton - Round 17
In the first of a handful of revenge games against their old clubs, Sam Petrevski-Seton vs Carlton will be an interesting matchup.
Petrevski-Seton started out his career on fire but since struggled for consistency throughout his time at the Blues.
The Western Australian was transitioned out of playing in the midfield while at the Blues who attempted to play him as a damaging back flank.
This was always going to be a challenging task for the former top 10 pick, being a more offensive-minded midfielder as a junior. The Blues then recruited two back flanks in Adam Saad and Zac Williams in the 2020 offseason. Couple that with playing with Sam Docherty, who also plays more offensive and the Blues made it difficult for him to succeed on a back flank.
The Blue's treatment of Petrevski-Seton was often quite questionable, never giving him the time to flourish in his natural position. He still showed flashes of brilliance while playing in the midfield. Injuries, fitness and a lack of selection also meant that Petrevski-Seton was never able to capitalise on those moments.
Returning to his home state and getting a fresh start will benefit Petrevski-Seton's future in the AFL. It is believed that the Eagles will play him more in his preferred position as a midfielder, which could see him have a career year this season.
Against the Blues, he will have the opportunity to show what he can do as a more permanent midfielder and he is sure to be desperate for a big performance that might sting the Blues, who let him go for pick 52.
