The AFL is back, and with it, a host of intriguing storylines and potential upsets. As we approach the business end of the season, teams are jostling for position, and players are making their mark. In this round, we see a return to form for some, a potential breakout for others, and a chance for underdogs to make a statement. But who will come out on top? Let's take a closer look at some of the key matches and players to watch.
Adelaide Crows vs. Collingwood
The Crows are on a roll, and with Darcy Fogarty suspended, they'll need to make at least one change. Taylor Walker is a likely replacement for Fogarty, and Zac Taylor could be the quiet hero, stepping up with crucial defensive acts. The Magpies, meanwhile, are led by the dynamic Josh Daicos, who will need to be monitored after an ankle concern. If Daicos plays, it could mean a start for Liam Puncher, who has impressed in his three senior matches.
Melbourne vs. Geelong Cats
The Demons are in a crunch match with the Cats, and Christian Salem is a strong chance to return after a foot injury. With Daniel Turner and Changkuoth Jiath out, the Demons' defence is depleted, and Harrison Petty could step up. The Cats, meanwhile, are missing Max Holmes to a fractured ankle, and Shaun Mannagh is unlikely to face the Demons after a hamstring issue. Mark Blicavs and Jack Martin are set to return, and Jack Bowes could make his debut in Holmes' place.
Fremantle vs. West Coast Eagles
The Dockers are without Jaeger O'Meara, who suffered an ankle injury, and Shai Bolton is set to return. Sean Darcy is a chance to return after being overlooked against Port Adelaide. The Eagles, meanwhile, are without Jack Hutchinson, who injured a hamstring, and Harley Reid is a watch after an ankle injury. Elijah Hewett is the likely replacement for Hutchinson, and with just nine disposals, Elliot Yeo looks in need of a rest.
Carlton vs. Gold Coast Suns
The Blues are without Harry McKay, who has a minor meniscus tear and bone bruising. Hudson O'Keeffe is a likely replacement if Josh Fraser goes tall, or Ashton Moir if he's looking for a mid-sized option. The Suns, meanwhile, are in a slump, having lost eight consecutive games. They made three changes last week, and you'd think there are more tweaks coming. Caleb Lewis managed one effective kick, and you'd expect more changes ahead of a must-win clash with Carlton.
Hawthorn vs. Essendon
The Hawks are in good form, and Jack Ginnivan was taken out of their win over Richmond as a precaution. Ned Reeves is an outside chance to return from a knee complaint. The Bombers, meanwhile, are without Xavier Duursma and Nick Bryan after coming off with injury. Emerging key forward Nate Caddy has been cleared to play, and Nik Cox kicked seven goals from 19 disposals in the VFL, pushing hard for a senior recall.
GWS Giants vs. Sydney Swans
The Giants are without captain Toby Greene, who exited the clash with a quad injury. Riley Hamilton held his spot up forward, and young Jack Ough had 32-35% time on ground. The Swans, meanwhile, are in a slump, having lost their last four games. Dean Cox may need to make some changes, and Harry Cunningham has a concussion. Harry Kyle looks a logical replacement for Cunningham, and Billy Cootee was outstanding in the VFL with five goals.
Western Bulldogs vs. Richmond
The Bulldogs are without Tom Liberatore, who was a late exclusion, and Riley Garcia, who was withdrawn due to hamstring tightness. Josh Dolan managed eight possessions in a game-low 62% game time. The Tigers, meanwhile, are without Steely Green and Taj Hotton, who rolled his ankle. Maurice Rioli shapes as Green's replacement, and Tyler Sonsie had another busy day in the reserves. Luke Trainor is eyeing a recall, and Judson Clarke kicked a couple of behinds from 16 touches and six marks.
Brisbane Lions vs. Port Adelaide
The Lions are without Oscar Allen, who kicked a goal from six disposals, and James Tunstill returned with 20 disposals and four inside 50s. The Power, meanwhile, are without Harrison Ramm, who withdrew with illness, and Jacob Wehr was recalled at the eleventh hour. Jason Horne-Francis will slot straight back in after serving a suspension, and you'd expect Ramm to return to the senior side.
North Melbourne vs. St Kilda
The Kangaroos are without Matt Whitlock, who was the lowest-rated player in their loss to Melbourne, and Tom Blamires is a chance to exit concussion protocols. South Australian Tom Powell looks unlikely to return to senior level, and small forward Zac Banch is a doubt with a minor hamstring complaint. The Saints, meanwhile, are boosted by the return of Max King, who will make his first senior appearance since Round 16. Angus Hastie returned good numbers in the VFL, registering 23 disposals at an efficiency of 87% and 11 tackles.
As the AFL season reaches its climax, these matches promise to be thrilling affairs. With so much on the line, every player will need to step up, and the underdogs will be looking to make a statement. Who will come out on top? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the action on the field will be electric.
