AFL Finals Week 1 My Preview
It’s finally Finals time, as the September action is set to begin. All of the four encounters are intriguing. There is even a local derby involving the Swans and the Giants. It’s a difficult week of footy to predict winners in! Hopefully the games live up their potential and we have four enthralling contests.
My choice of a definite winner for this Round: Tigers
Thursday Night Game
Tigers v Hawks
This is a mouth watering clash, it promises to be an entertaining contest between the first and the fourth teams on the ladder. I can’t see the Tigers squandering their opportunity to have a week off with the MCG a fortress for the Tigers. I expect Damien Hardwick to have his team primed for this one.
Key matchup: Toby Nankervis v Ben Mcevoy
Tigers Game Changer: Josh Caddy
Hawks Game Changer: Tom Mitchell
My Prediction: Tigers
Friday Night Game
This is an interesting game on paper, of course footy isn’t played on paper. Once again it’s a tough game to pick a winner in. Both teams are in good form; it’s a pity that a loss will bring about the end of the season for one of these two.
Key matchup: Clayton Oliver v Joel Selwood
Demons Game Changer: Angus Brayshaw
Cats Game Changer: Sam Menegola
My Prediction: Demons
Saturday Game
Swans v Giants
This local derby is a tough one to pick, with the Giants and Swans suffering losses in round 23, fortunately for both teams they are set to get a few players back from injury with the Swans set to regain Lance Franklin and Luke Parker, while the Giants will get some quality performers back as well.
Key matchup: Callum Sinclair v Rory Lobb
Swans Game Changer: Luke Parker
Giants Game Changer: Josh Kelly
My Prediction: Giants
Saturday Night Game
Eagles v Magpies
The Eagles and Magpies face off in a fascinating clash. Thankfully the loser of this game has the chance to redeem themselves next week. I can’t see the Magpies curtailing the influence of Josh Kennedy.
Key matchup: Scott Lycett v Brodie Grundy
Eagles Game Changer: Chris Masten
Magpies Game Changer: Taylor Adams
My Prediction: Eagles