Finals fever has struck the AFL with four big games
set to capture the imagination of fans around
Australia.
The Premiership Players Club takes an in-depth look
at what shapes as a classic elimination final
between Collingwood and the Western Bulldogs at the
MCG this Sunday.
Legends Thorold Merrett (Magpies) and Jack Collins
(Bulldogs) are eagerly awaiting the first bounce in
the do-or-die game.
AFL Premership Players Club president Jack Collins:
"It's exciting to see the Bulldogs back in the
finals for the first time since 2000.
"They'll be fired up to give a good account of
themselves.
"Coach Rodney Eade will impress upon his players to
take risks, particularly coming out of the back-line
in order to get the ball quickly and with pinpoint
passes to the forwards to stop Collingwood trying to
clutter up the 50m arc.
"The defense needs to tighten up a lot after
allowing Essendon to get back into the game after
trailing by 46 points midway through the second
quarter of last week's game at Telstra Dome.
"I can't see Sunday's game being a shoot-out like
that game which produced 40 goals.
"The possible return of Nathan Eagleton on a wing
will add another dimension to the side's
goal-kicking ability.
"I really like Eagleton's dashing and long-kicking
style and he regularly kicks goals from outside the
50m arc.
"Lindsay Gilbee and Rohan Smith can also be
dangerous from long range with their thumping
kicking styles.
"Brad Johnson is in career-best form and if he can
have a big influence against the Pies, it will go a
long way to helping the Bulldogs secure a win.
"Daniel Giansiracusa made a welcome return to form
with four goals against the Bombers and he'll be
required to keep the goal umpires busy in what will
be the first finals game he's played.
"The likes of Daniel Cross and Adam Cooney combined
with Scott West in the midfield will be hoping to
create plenty of drive and opportunities for the
forwards.
"Also throw in the speedy Jordan McMahon who is
enjoying some great form. My great mate from the
Footscray Mail Steven Milne has been very impressed
with McMahon's pinpoint foot passing to leading
forwards like Johnson and Matthew Robbins.
"It will require a super effort from Peter Street
and Will Minson in the ruck to provide the onballers
with opportunities to get the footy out of the
centre quickly and into the forward-line.
"The Bulldogs should come out on top providing
they're switched on from the first bouce which I'm
certain they will be.
"They should prove too quick for the Magpies."
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