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.
6. Dunstan vs St Kilda
One caveat to this match is whether the former Saint will actually be selectedย given the Dees are already stacked in midfield and Dunstan currently finds himself behind their premiership midfielders.
If he is playing, however, this will be a big matchup to keep an eye on.
Dunstan was previously on the outer of St Kilda's team over the past few seasons but fought back to play some solid football towards the back end of his stint at Moorabbin. Despite only playing 12 games in 2021, the South Australian was the Saints' second-highest vote-getter at the Brownlow with 11.
In the offseason, Dunstan made headlines when he spoke out about his treatment from the club. He discussed being "disappointed" with being dropped despite playing solid football, and how coach Brett Ratten "didn't rate him". His priority for the offseason was a fresh start and new opportunities to help with his motivation towards the game.
After not being offered a contract from St Kilda, Dunstan would be looking to play a big game against his old club.
