Geelong get nod in final
AUSSIE RULES: For the first time ever, the AFL grand final will be played in Queensland as the Gabba gets its moment in the sun.
Unfortunately the Brisbane Lions fell at the penultimate hurdle, however a mouth-watering clash between two of the competition’s big time clubs face off.
Richmond is looking for back-to-back flags and it’s third premiership in four years, while Geelong features in its first grand final since 2011.
The Chronicle spoke with AFL Darling Downs identities to get their thoughts on tonight’s intriguing encounter.
MICHAEL O’DONOGHUE (TOOWOOMBA TIGERS) – The Tigers playercoach is siding with the Cats to get the job done, with a number of players having so much to play for.
“Geelong has more to play for, and they haven’t lost at the Gabba this year,” O’Donoghue said.
“The times I’ve seen them play, nobody has been able to match up with them. They’ve got a few superstars in their team, and if Richmond can’t shut them down, they’ll win.
“Both teams will rise to the occasion. There’s no home ground or lack of advantage. Both teams have been there and done that and have plenty of experience.
“Patrick Dangerfield is chasing that first premiership, and they’ll have plenty to play for with Gary Ablett’s farewell.”
Norm Smith Medal prediction – Patrick Dangerfield
ANDREW FOLEY (SOUTH BURNETT SAINTS) – With a number of elite players coming to the fore in the finals, the Saints mentor is siding with Geelong in a tight one.
“I’m going with Geelong by four points,” Foley said.
“I think they’re pretty evenly balanced and had the easier prelim final.
“Richmond had to play in heavy conditions in a tough game, although they did get an extra day’s rest.
“There’s not much in it, but I think Geelong has a bit more class with their best players and a few All Australians.
“It’s got that fairytale feel with Ablett’s last game.”
Norm Smith Medal prediction – Bachar Houli
THE CHRONICLE’S SAY – If there’s ever been a flip of a coin game, this is it. Richmond will come into the game as the slightest of favourites, but it was hard to not be impressed by the way Geelong dismantled the Lions last week, ending the hopes of a fairytale grand final appearance for Brisbane.
Both sides are littered with class across the park, with the obvious likes of Dusty Martin and Patrick Dangerfield to come to the fore.
I’m leaning towards the Cats by the barest of margins. It will come down to the final siren.
Norm Smith Medal prediction – Patrick Dangerfield