We are down to the final four teams in the race to become Premiers for 2018.
Richmond Tigers vs Collingwood Magpies:
Friday night’s blockbuster preliminary final between Richmond and Collingwood is 38 years in the making.
The two powerhouses haven’t met in the post-season since the Tigers hammered the Pies by 81 points in the 1980 Grand Final, and this one is set to nudge a six-figure crowd.
For all of Collingwood’s defiance of its lengthy injury list, it must defeat the reigning premier to have any hope of winning a first flag in eight years.
The midfield battle will be titanic – Martin, Cotchin, Prestia and Lambert v Pendlebury, Treloar, Sidebottom and Adams – but can the Pies withstand Richmond’s famed pressure to kick a winning score?
West Coast Eagles vs Melbourne Demons:
Saturday afternoon will see the fairytale that is the Melbourne Demon’s season continue on when they head to Perth to take on the West Coast Eagles for a spot in the Grand Final.
If you’re looking for a recent form guide between the sides, you don’t have to cast your mind back that far.
In fact, you only have to revisit the round 22 clash between the Eagles and Demons at Optus Stadium – which Melbourne won by 17 points.
Although Melbourne stood tall to book its finals spot in that game, the Eagles – spurred on by their boisterous home crowd – won’t make the challenge any easier this time around.
Fresh from a week’s rest, West Coast – with Josh Kennedy fit and firing – will be tough to beat as it looks to return to the Grand Final stage following its appearance in the decider in 2015.
Duke will be broadcasting both finals LIVE and FREE TO AIR on Freeview channel 13, SKY TV channel 23 or stream it live off any digital device at www.watchduke.co.nz.
For more information, head to aflnz.co.nz/watch-afl
