The upcoming AFL Round 17 fixtures and team tips are a fascinating insight into the league's current dynamics and potential future moves. The focus is on the strategic decisions coaches will make, the impact of injuries, and the potential debutants who could make a difference. Here's a breakdown of the key points and my personal commentary on each team's situation.
Geelong Cats vs. Brisbane Lions
The Cats are set to welcome back Tom Stewart and Bailey Smith, who are both returning from injuries, which will give them a significant boost in their quest for the premiership. Gryan Miers is also in the running to return after managing his ACL sprain. This could see a few players, like Jack Martin or Mark Blicavs, being cut from the team. The Lions, on the other hand, are in a strong position after a dominant win over Sydney. They are likely to keep their starting 23 unchanged, with Ryan Lester making a successful return last week. All-Australian midfielder Hugh McCluggage and veteran Dayne Zorko are set to return the following week, while Keidean Coleman is also making a strong comeback.
Sydney Swans vs. Western Bulldogs
The Swans are dealing with a major setback as Joel Amartey's partial Achilles tear will keep him out for at least 10 weeks, which could impact their finals chances. This opens up an opportunity for Hayden McLean, who has been struggling to hold down a spot. Dean Cox might make some changes to the team, considering the disappointing loss to Brisbane. The Bulldogs, on the other hand, are in a strong position after a well-deserved break. They will need to come out charging on Friday night, with Small forward Cody Weightman returning to the fold. Lachie McNeil might be squeezed out of the senior side, and Riley Garcia and Bailey Williams are still a few weeks away from a likely run in the reserves.
West Coast Eagles vs. Adelaide Crows
The Eagles are set to welcome back midfielder Tim Kelly from a minor hamstring injury, but they will be without Pick 4 Cooper Duff-Tytler, who sustained a calf injury. The team might make some changes, with Jack Williams and Matt Flynn in the running to replace Duff-Tytler. The Crows, on the other hand, are dealing with some injuries, including a hamstring strain for Wayne Milera and a hamstring strain for Rebounder Mitch Hinge. They might consider resting Lachie McAndrew, and if they're looking for an out-and-out ruck, Reilly O'Brien has been in strong form all season playing reserves.
Hawthorn vs. Melbourne
The Hawks will welcome back rugby league convert Matt Hill for his AFL debut, replacing Nick Watson. Star goalkicker Jack Gunston is likely to return after missing the past three games with a foot injury. The Demons, on the other hand, are in a strong position after their bye. They are likely to keep their starting 23 unchanged, with Harrison Petty tracking well to return for Saturday's game.
GWS Giants vs. Fremantle
The Giants are set to make some changes after the untimely blows to Max Gruzewski and Brent Daniels. Jack Buckley is listed as a test, and if he's available, he could be a valuable addition to the backline. The Dockers, on the other hand, are in a strong position after a dominant performance against the respectable ruck duo of Ned Moyle and Jarrod Witts. They might consider resting their young stars, but the team is currently in great shape.
Gold Coast Suns vs. Collingwood
The Suns are in a tough position after five straight losses, and they might consider cutting ties with some players, like Charlie Ballard. The Magpies, on the other hand, are in a strong position, with Brayden Maynard likely to return from his shoulder injury. The team might make some changes, with Sam Swadling and Angus Anderson in the running for a spot.
Richmond vs. Carlton
The Tigers are set to welcome back Tom Lynch after a larynx injury, which could give them a significant boost in their quest for the premiership. The Blues, on the other hand, are in a strong position after a sixth-straight win. They might consider making some changes, with Ollie Hollands and Blake Acres currently man the flanks.
Essendon vs. St Kilda
The Dons are dealing with some injuries, including a shoulder dislocation for Archie Roberts. The Saints, on the other hand, are in a tough position after the losses of Jack Sinclair and Tom De Koning. They might consider making some big selection calls, with Ross Lyon making some changes to the team.
Port Adelaide vs. North Melbourne
The Power is in a strong position after a shock Showdown 60 victory win over cross-town rivals Adelaide. They might consider making some changes, with Dante Visentini and Jacob Wehr in the running for a spot. The Roos, on the other hand, are in a strong position after winning three games on the trot and sitting in ninth place with eight rounds to play.
