Night GF a look to the future

AFL boss Gillon McLachlan says the success of Saturday night’s Gabba grand final will determine whether the decider makes a permanent move to a night-time slot.

McLachlan is excited by the impact the Richmond-Geelong decider will have in determining the future timeslot of the biggest game on the AFL calendar.

“What it does now in a way that’s unemotional, it’s out of Victoria, different state, I think people feel it’s a good time to have a look at it,” McLachlan said at the Gabba on Thursday.

“We’ll see where we get to … by the full siren on Saturday night. Everyone then will be able to have an objective view.

“Have a look at the start to finish. It’s going to be a beautiful winding lead-in to the game, there’ll be something at halftime, and then a winner, hopefully after double extratime. Then everyone can judge a night grand final on its merits.”

McLachlan said grand final week in Brisbane had been “different” but “positive”.

“That’s in no way diminishing what grand final week looks like in Melbourne and the MCG, which is recognised around the world as something special and significant,” he said.

“Queensland has embraced our game. The ratings say that, the ticketing says that, and the energy … it feels like we’re in a footy town now.

“I want to thank everyone who’s come on board and adopted out game. I know they’ll adopt a team on the weekend.

“I’m thrilled to be standing here having had a great build up. There is a buzz in this town.

“I just reckon this is going to be a grand final for the ages.”