Summary
OK - how to summarise that game? Incredible, last-gasp win by the Eagles at the Adelaide-Oval cauldron which left a sea of Power fans heartbroken. Sam Mitchell and Matt Priddis’ careers will continue for at least one more week. The Eagles will now line up against GWS next week in Sydney, while Sydney will face Geelong in a blockbuster after they easily accounted for the Bombers earlier.
In the NRL, the Storm barely escaped with a win over the Eels (despite their overwhelming favouritism) to earn a week off and a home prelim, while the Panthers reversed last week’s result against the Sea Eagles, to run out 22-10 upset winners. Tomorrow’s Sharks v Cowboys clash will round out this week’s NRL action.
Meanwhile, the Wallabies and Springboks drew 23-all in Perth, in what was as much a protest of the Force’s fortunes as it was a Championship Test. More on that in a full report shortly.
Thankyou to all of those who joined me, and to Jonathan for his excellent work before me. I’ll be back next week, but please join Sam tomorrow for some more Sportwatch.
West Coast Eagles 12.6 (78) beat Port Adelaide 10.16 (76)
Shuey boots a goal after the siren to win the game for the Eagles in the most dramatic of thrillers. What a final, what a game. Fitting for Shuey to kick the goal - he ended on 32 disposals, with 14 contested possessions, five marks, five clearances, 12 tackles and two goals. Matt Priddis also had an enormous game with 33 disposals, 17 contested possessions, ten clearances and ten tackles.
The Port players are shattered - and so they should be - they looked the winners right until the final moment, and the home crowd is devastated. Polec caught Shuey head-high in the dying seconds, and their supporters will argue that he dropped the knees into it. Massive game from Charlie Dixon, who had 23 disposals, 16 contested possessions, seven marks (four inside 50), four tackles and 3.6 - the six behinds being his only blemish (including a crucial miss in the final minutes).
Feeling for the Port supporters on TV. Didn’t really deserve to be a loser tonight, but what a memorable win for the Eagles.
Updated
AFL extra-time siren sounds Port Adelaide 10.16 (76) v West Coast 11.6 (72)
Head-high free to Shuey! He will kick after the siren for the game!
AFL extra-time 2 00:27 remaining Port Adelaide 10.16 (76) v West Coast 11.6 (72)
Eagles free - goes to Shuey who played on but it gets called back. Ball goes out of bounds with 27 seconds left in the Eagles’ forward line.
AFL extra-time 2 01:07 remaining Port Adelaide 10.16 (76) v West Coast 11.6 (72)
McGovern had Shuey in space but it was an awful handball and he couldn’t pick it up - Eagles get caught holding the ball. They have the ball but Port are winning the one-on-ones.
McGovern had a sure mark and punched it over the line instead. Could be telling.
AFL extra-time 2 02:00 remaining Port Adelaide 10.16 (76) v West Coast 11.6 (72)
Boak blazes away for a behind - which opens the door for the Eagles.
AFL extra-time 2 02:16 remaining Port Adelaide 10.15 (75) v West Coast 11.6 (72)
Awful bounce doesn’t help with the drama. Throw-up ensues. Ryder steps up and gets the clearance, before Dixon takes a spectacular one-arm grab. Has kicked 3.5 - make that 3.6.
AFL extra-time 2 03:09 remaining Port Adelaide 10.14 (74) v West Coast 11.6 (72)
Vardy wins a key contest on Ryder (what a bad game he’s had) - and Vardy roves his own ball to find Kennedy free inside 50. It’s a goal! Two points only in it.
AFL extra-time 2 04:03 remaining Port Adelaide 10.14 (74) v West Coast 10.6 (66)
Eagles won 5-0 clearances in that last part of extra-time, but Port have the upper-hand. Sam Gray wins a critical contest and gets the ball to Wingard inside the forard 50 - could have been in the back but no whistle. Eagles turn it over in the middle - lacked composure. Ball spills to Sam Gray - Wingard has a shot at a sitter and misses!
AFL extra-time 2 05:00 remaining Port Adelaide 10.13 (73) v West Coast 10.6 (66)
‘Siren’ sounds and Cripps tries a torp from about 90m out. It actually makes it to the goal square - and the players change ends for the second half of extra-time. Just five minutes left.
AFL extra-time 1 00:08 remaining Port Adelaide 10.13 (73) v West Coast 10.6 (66)
Kennedy goals! Unbelievable - Lewis Jetta, who has barely been seen all match, has suddenly had four possessions in this five minutes - and it was some Jetta speed and brilliance in the middle which led to the Kennedy soccer goal.
AFL extra-time 1 00:24 remaining Port Adelaide 10.13 (73) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
Ollie Wines! Massive long goal just before the teams are due to swap ends. Hate to say it but the Eagles’ defenders looked to panic there.
AFL extra-time 1 00:53 remaining Port Adelaide 9.13 (67) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
Edge-of-your-seat stuff here - but Power look just that bit harder and more desperate at the ball. They somehow get a two-on-one in the forward line, and Dixon has a chance to put them two goals ahead. He misses.
AFL extra-time 1 02:30 remaining Port Adelaide 9.12 (66) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
Jetta out of the middle, but the Eagles can’t keep it inside their forward 50. Port looking the stronger team in this very short first part of extra-time. Hartlett still on the bench.
AFL extra-time 1 03:33 remaining Port Adelaide 9.12 (66) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
Boak has a chance to kick a captain’s goal - but keeps his head and centres to Sam Gray, 20m out on a slight angle. He goals. Perfect start for Port.
AFL extra-time 1 04:47 remaining Port Adelaide 8.12 (60) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
So there’s no break after the first five minutes - the players just immediately swap ends. This is for a spot in the final against GWS next week in Sydney.
Petrie gives away an accidental head-high free to Hamish Harlett - who gets up groggily. Pittard remonstrates and is lucky not to give away a reverse free-kick.
Wallabies and Springboks draw 23-23
Stay with us, everyone, the AFL isn’t over.
Just to confirm in the meantime, the Rugby Union Championship Test between the Wallabies and Springboks has ended in a draw.
I’ll put up a report after this, but here’s a little preview:
“The Wallabies led 20-10 in the 47th minute, courtesy of tries to Kurtley Beale and Tatafu Polota-Nau. But the home side looked destined for another heartbreaking loss when the Springboks produced a powerful second half to take a 23-20 lead. Bernard Foley nailed a clutch 40m penalty with nine minutes to go to level the scores, and the Wallabies smothered an after-the-siren drop-goal attempt from Elton Jantjies to deny South Africa victory. The result - just a fortnight after a heartbreaking 35-29 loss to the All Blacks in Dunedin - leaves the Wallabies with a draw and two losses ahead of next week’s clash with Argentina in Canberra.
Western Force jerseys dominated the crowd at nib Stadium as fans protested against the axing of their beloved franchise. The Wallabies’ gold was scarce, with only about 15 per cent of the 17,528 crowd donning the national colours. A chant of “Force, Force” went up before kickoff, and the fans chanted the name of their axed Super Rugby franchise at numerous other times in the game, as well as after the match.”
- AAP
AFL full-time (with extra-time to come) Port Adelaide 8.12 (60) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
Wow - the last time we had a draw in a final was the 2010 grand final. So we have a six minute break, then five minutes each way. Sam Mitchell pulls his team in for a pep talk. He checks in with an official to clarify what’s happening - all the players look confused.
AFL full-time (with extra-time to come) Port Adelaide 8.12 (60) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
Any score will win for Port but McGovern marks with ten seconds left. This will end in a draw. Siren sounds.
AFL Q4 00:38 remaining Port Adelaide 8.12 (60) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
Ryder tries a backward tap to Gray aka the St Kilda game, but it doesn’t come off. Byrne Jones almost kicks a point, and it hits the behind post for out of bounds. 38 seconds.
Updated
AFL Q4 01:00 remaining Port Adelaide 8.12 (60) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
Robbie Gray to Ebert but the ball is smothered - it saved a certain score. Huge deliberate call goes against the Eagles - reckon that was crowd-paid. Desperate players everywhere with a minute to go. Ball out of bounds in the Port forward 50.
AFL Q4 02:11 remaining Port Adelaide 8.12 (60) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
LeCras and Gaff both try to soccer a score from well outside the goal - brain fades, both, I think. LeCras particularly had much more time and space. Both didn’t connect well at all.
If it’s a draw we have five minutes each way - if it’s still drawn, it’s next score wins.
Updated
AFL Q4 03:11 remaining Port Adelaide 8.12 (60) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
Robbie Gray has been stuck on the bench for the past few minutes - with the ball deep on the other side of the field. Ball looks to go out on the full, but the mark is paid to Marshall. Boak hits the post! Scores level!
AFL Q4 04:11 remaining Port Adelaide 8.11 (59) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
Huge intercept mark by McGovern - will that be a match-winner? Still plenty of time to go, but he repelled a certain goal. He’s had six intercept marks for the night - and three in this quarter alone.
Eagles almost seem to be milking the clock - far too early for that.
AFL Q4 05:30 remaining Port Adelaide 8.11 (59) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
If anyone is wondering it’s 23 all in the Rugby Championship Test - so we have a couple of simultaneous thrillers. I’ll put a match report up after, but apologies I can’t cover it!
Priddis is up to his 27th disposal, with his future riding on this result. Dixon, fresh off the bench, takes an important contested mark on the wing - not sure how he spent so long off the ground given how influential he has been.
AFL Q4 08:36 remaining Port Adelaide 8.11 (59) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
Just a point in it now after Boak misses - and Wingard gives away a free, plus 50m, after going for a miracle speccy. Tension is as high as it gets. If this ends in a draw, there’s a break and five minutes each way, apparently.
Updated
AFL Q4 10:18 remaining Port Adelaide 8.10 (58) v West Coast 9.6 (60)
Smart, centering ball by Gaff and he finds Drew Petrie for a fantastic contested grab just 10m out. I should stop with my predictions. Eagles back in front.
AFL Q4 11:22 remaining Port Adelaide 8.10 (58) v West Coast 8.6 (54)
Dixon lines up for another - and it’s all Port Adelaide. Huge burst of speed through the middle by Riley Bonner set that up, exciting stuff. I can’t even remember last time West Coast scored a goal, that’s how long ago it was (OK it was the second quarter, nine minute-mark).
I jinxed it - it’s a mark to Priddis! Can he kick a fairytale goal? He converts to give the Eagles hope.
AFL Q4 13:51 remaining Port Adelaide 8.9 (57) v West Coast 7.6 (48)
Clearances are even, while Port dominate inside 50s 43-35, and lead contested possessions 122-120 and tackles 66-57.
Powell-Pepper! What a goal! It was a high wobbler, but floats through for two in a row. Reckon the home side will be hard to beat from here.
AFL Q4 15:03 remaining Port Adelaide 7.9 (51) v West Coast 7.6 (48)
Port Adelaide hit the lead for the first time in the match - with 15 minutes remaining. Brilliant roving goal from Ollie Wines, and the crowd erupts.
AFL Q4 16:30 remaining Port Adelaide 6.9 (45) v West Coast 7.6 (48)
Paddy Ryder rips the ball out of the ruck contest and has a flying shot at goal - but he can only manage a behind. Looks angry, and like he could tip the game either way for the Power.
Point to the Eagles after Nathan Vardy looks to snap a miracle goal - but it appears to touch Pittard’s arm. Umpire’s call.
Penrith Panthers beat Manly Sea Eagles 22-10
Manly have been knocked out of the NRL finals by the Panthers - just a week after the Sea Eagles dominated Penrith 28-12. The scoreline was almost reversed on this occasion, with two late tries gifting the Panthers an upset win. Cartwright scored two tries, and Peachey one, while Cleary had three conversions and two penalty goals. Josh Mansour starred with 236 run metres, while Dylan Edwards had 160.
AFL three-quarter-time Port Adelaide 6.8 (44) v West Coast 7.5 (47)
Oh dear - Charlie Dixon misses a sitter - Ryder still hasn’t added to his possession tally, but almost took a big mark up forward which Dixon roved (and should have converted). West Coast are goalless in this third term as Port continue to close.
West Coast have led all game. Port Adelaide had 17 forward 50 entries that quarter for 1.3.
Updated
AFL Q3 03:40 remaining Port Adelaide 6.6 (42) v West Coast 7.5 (47)
Paddy Ryder having a shocker - and gives away a hands in the back free to Petrie - but he boots it out on the full. Hmm. Port work their way back down the wing, but Robbie Gray gives away a free to Petrie. Poor kick by Wines. Robbie Gray’s had 20 possessions - nine contested, four clearances, four tackles and two inside 50s.
Cripps’ turn to kick one out of bounds on the full. Josh Kennedy very quiet - just six disposals and the one goal.
Updated
AFL Q3 06:20 remaining Port Adelaide 6.6 (42) v West Coast 7.5 (47)
Commentary team are now saying McGovern definitely touched the ball, but he may have “pushed it onto Wingard’s boot”. Didn’t look like that to me. Controversy reigns, and momentum shifts firmly to Port. Alongside the free against Ryder in the ruck, there’ll be plenty of chatter about that this week.
Updated
AFL Q3 07:56 remaining Port Adelaide 6.6 (42) v West Coast 7.5 (47)
Impey with a shot on goal - is this finally the score we’ve been waiting for? He can’t make the distance, but Dixon barges through the pack to pass off to Chad Wingard who appears to snap truly - but the replay shows it’s touched by McGovern. Wait - it’s ruled a goal after the review. WHAT?
Updated
AFL Q3 10:46 remaining Port Adelaide 5.6 (36) v West Coast 7.5 (47)
Charlie Dixon with a team-lifting chase on Redden which results in a holding the ball free. Doing everything he can to win it for the Power. It sets up a Polec shot at goal which is out of bounds on the full - again.
Updated
AFL Q3 11:52 remaining Port Adelaide 5.6 (36) v West Coast 7.5 (47)
Great body work and contested mark by Sam Gray - but he kicks it out on the full. Ouch. Paddy Ryder still just with the one disposal - looks incredibly frustrated, particularly after that ruck free. He has 31 hit-outs, up against Vardy (15) and Petrie (8).
AFL Q3 14:30 remaining Port Adelaide 5.6 (36) v West Coast 7.5 (47)
Mitchell passes the all-time record for most possessions in finals (ahead of Michael Tuck). Slow start to this third term, with just one behind so far (Eagles will be keen to get off the mark - they haven’t scored a goal for 30 minutes).
Jarman Impey hits the post - just the one point to both sides.
AFL Q3 17:49 remaining Port Adelaide 5.5 (35) v West Coast 7.5 (47)
A behind to Gaff after the ball ricochets off Jared Polec (reckon it was above his knee, but was still paid out on the full).
Ryder with just the one disposal for Port - and now is caught holding the ball. No such problems for Matt Priddis (17), Andre Gaff (17) Luke Shuey (15) and Sam Mitchell (13).
Rugby Union 51:20 Wallabies 20-10 Springboks
A try to Polota-Nau in the 27th minute, and resultant conversion by Foley, extends the Australian lead.
Rugby Union Half-time Wallabies 13-10 Springboks
Before I return to the second half of the AFL - here’s a quick update on the Wallabies. There’s a try to Beale, and conversion by Foley, plus two Foley penalty goals for Australia. For the Springboks, Kriel has a try (the first of the match), while Jantjles has a conversion and penalty goal.
Most runs - Hooper (6), Kuridrani (5) and Beale (4) for the Wallabies. One line-break each to Beale and Folau.
Will have a match report on this up later.
NRL H2 54:00 Manly Sea Eagles 4-10 Penrith Panthers
Just the single try (without a conversion) to the Sea Eagles - which went to Walker, while the Panthers have two tries (one to Cartwright, and one penalty goal to Cleary). Matthew Wright has a big 164 run metres for the Se Eagles, while Tom Trbojevic has 120 and one line break. Jake Trbojevic has 31 tackles, while Koroisau has 39. For the Panthers, Josh Mansour has 139 run metres, while Dylan Edwards has 115. Peter Wallace has 29 tackles, and Naera has 21.
AFL half-time Port Adelaide 5.5 (35) v West Coast 7.4 (46)
The Eagles win a holding the ball on the siren, which goes to Shuey, but he can’t make the distance from 55m out. Great quarter by the Power, who added four goals to their quarter-time tally, to be well within striking distance with a half remaining.
I’ll jump around the grounds now before I come back to this game.
Q2 02:43 remaining Port Adelaide 5.5 (35) v West Coast 7.4 (46)
12 out of the last 15 inside 50s for Port, who have evened up the stats considerably. 21-20 inside 50s for Port now, while the Eagles lead the clearances 19-17. Contested possessions still well in the Eagles’ favour at 73-61.
Eagles have slowed their ball movement to try wrest back some momentum.
Q2 04:05 remaining Port Adelaide 5.4 (34) v West Coast 7.4 (46)
Ebert! His long running goal is Port’s third in a row. Just two goals in it now, and we might have a tight final after all.
Q2 04:25 remaining Port Adelaide 4.4 (28) v West Coast 7.4 (46)
On the replay it looks like Ryder does nominate - with a hand, rather than a verbal nomination - but the umpire has his back to him, and so shouts twice that there’s not a Port nomination. It’s pretty loud here, though, so doubtful Ryder heard it. Needless to say he wasn’t impressed.
Westhoff finds Robbie Gray with a brilliant contested mark on the boundary line, who in turn quickly centeres the ball to Wingard. Poor miss.
Q2 06:52 remaining Port Adelaide 4.3 (27) v West Coast 7.3 (45)
Bizarre ruck free - with the umpire insisting that there was ‘no Port Adelaide’ nomination. Ryder then contested - and a free is paid against him. Shemozzle of a rule. Dom Sheed, however, can’t convert, with a horrible, wobbling effort.
Q2 08:23 remaining Port Adelaide 4.3 (27) v West Coast 7.2 (44)
Great game by Jeremy McGovern so far, with eight disposals, three intercept marks and three critical spoils. He can’t stop this Power surge, though, and Port finally have another goal scorer in Sam Gray. Sheppard had space on him, but overran the ball and gifted Port a goal in the process. Feel for him.
Q2 10:00 remaining Port Adelaide 3.3 (21) v West Coast 7.2 (44)
A rare mistake from Mitchell hands the ball back to Charlie Dixon, who has a chance to wheel onto the right and snap a goal - but the kick is wayward. He’s got 3.1.
Bit of a momentum shift to the Power - who at least seem back on equal footing.
Q2 12:20 remaining Port Adelaide 3.2 (20) v West Coast 7.2 (44)
Alright I mightn’t have a clue with my tips, but I did say Dixon might kick a bag (or have to). He almost makes his fourth, this time with a bomb from 55m out, but Vardy gets a nail on it.
Updated
Q2 13:35 remaining Port Adelaide 3.1 (19) v West Coast 7.2 (44)
Charlie Dixon again! This time on the run, after a slick pass from Neade, who received a Wingard turnover. He’s got three, the Power have got three, and didn’t they desperately need that.
Updated
Q2 14:04 remaining Port Adelaide 2.1 (13) v West Coast 7.2 (44)
Petrie rucks and roves his own ball - and the Eagles pick out Cripps 45m out. Priddis now has 14 disposals (nine contested, five clearances), and Mitchell ten. Cripps converts - and the Eagles can do no wrong.
Q2 14:57 remaining Port Adelaide 2.1 (13) v West Coast 6.2 (38)
Priddis bursts through the pack, and Darling takes the Eagles’ eighth contested mark (a significant number). He has his third - and more than Port’s total.
Q2 16:14 remaining Port Adelaide 2.1 (13) v West Coast 5.2 (32)
Dugan takes on Charlie Dixon - and loses. He’s fired up, Charlie, and is openly trying to lift his team. He’s had the seven disposals, four contested possessions, two tackles, two frees for, and two goals. Looking ominous - and is single-handedly keeping the Power in it. SPP blazes away at goal and picks out a sea of Eagles’ defenders.
Q2 18:04 remaining Port Adelaide 2.1 (13) v West Coast 5.2 (32)
Amon can’t convert for the Power, who desperately need one back, but they’ll have another shot. Dixon draws a holding free and converts. He has both of his team’s goals - and 48 for the year.
Q2 19:57 remaining Port Adelaide 1.0 (6) v West Coast 5.2 (32)
Shuey gets the first for the Eagles with a neat snap around the body - and it’s just the start Port didn’t need.
Rest assured I will update on NRL and Union at half-time.
Quarter-time Port Adelaide 1.0 (6) v West Coast 4.2 (26)
The Adelaide crowd has been effectively silenced by this shock start. Sam Mitchell, the proven finals specialist, is on fire with nine disposals, two contested possessions, two marks, two inside 50s and a goal assist. Port have no answer for him at the moment.
Q1 01:50 remaining Port Adelaide 1.0 (6) v West Coast 4.2 (26)
Like seeing Todd Marshall get a chance at finals footy for the Power. Does seem slightly overawed at this stage, but hopefully he comes good. Another first-year player, Sam Powell-Pepper, already has four disposals, including a clearance, inside 50 and goal assist, as well as five tackles. He came third in the Rising Star - with 35 votes (McGrath had 51, and Burton had 41). Great season.
Uh oh, Ebert picks out Drew Petrie 50m out, trying to clear the defensive arc. Makes the distance easily, and it’s straight through the middle - what a pick-up he’s been for the Eagles.
Updated
Q1 06:30 remaining Port Adelaide 1.0 (6) v West Coast 3.2 (20)
Stats all in the Eagles’ favour. 8-2 clearances, 12-4 inside 50s, 28-15 contested possessions. Everything on their terms as it stands.
Six disposals to Sam Mitchell and Andrew Gaff, five to Westhoff and Polec.
Finally the Power win a free for holding the ball against Priddis. SPP takes it but the shot misses everything.
Q1 10:12 remaining Port Adelaide 1.0 (6) v West Coast 3.2 (20)
The noise from this Port crowd is deafening - as a Victorian I’m not sure there’s much that’s more intimidating than a filthy Adelaide crowd (and by that, I mean filthy with the umpires, which the Port fans seem to have been since the game began - to be fair the free-kick tally is currently 5-0 to West Coast).
Gaff has a chance to kick the Eagles’ fourth, but rushes the kick. Yet another Mitchell score-assist/involvement.
Updated
Q1 11:33 remaining Port Adelaide 1.0 (6) v West Coast 3.1 (19)
Finally the Power connect, running the ball the length of the ground to Charlie Dixon free just outside the square. He converts, and the locals breathe a sigh of relief.
Q1 14:48 remaining Port Adelaide 0.0 (0) v West Coast 3.1 (19)
Kennedy wins a free for over the shoulder (against Clurey), and it’s never in doubt. Port have hardly touched it - just the 15 disposals between eight players.
Q1 15:56 remaining Port Adelaide 0.0 (0) v West Coast 2.1 (13)
Sam Mitchell heavily involved early - the 2012 Bronlow medallist, 4x premiership player, 4x Hawthorn best and fairest and 3x All-Australian. Intimidating stuff. Has combined on several occasions with that other impressive retiree, Matt Priddis (himself 2014 Brownlow medallist, 2015 All Australian, 2013 best and fairest...)
Mitchell finds Jack Darling with a clever handball and he’s kicked the first two! Eagles should really have three goals, after LeCras missed badly. Great start for West Coast.
Updated
Q1 18:54 remaining Port Adelaide 0.0 (0) v West Coast 1.0 (6)
Josh Kennedy has a set shot first up, but it drops short on the point line, and is sharked by Jack Darling over three Port defenders. He gets the first goal in his milestone game. Hail the King?
Ready to go
Anthem over, not quite the roar of the MCG last night, but still some pretty special scenes.
‘Never tear us apart’ had all the emotion the anthem lacked. Great to hear the Power fans in voice.
Speaking of Port fans, you might want to check out this video with captain Boak below.
WATCH: @travisboak10 has been to the big dance, and this year, he's daring to dream that @PAFC can add a 2nd 🏆. #AFLPowerEagles pic.twitter.com/HktQSPNWzN
— AFL on 7 (@7AFL) September 9, 2017
Updated
And now for the Eagles
For the record, their banner actually just says “Hail the King Jack Darling, 150 games” (we’re not all a wordsmiths like McGinlay). And “AFLW 2019, we’re ready”. Clearly confident on the latter (or is it a final pitch? Gil? When are we going to know about what’s going on with the AFLW expansion anyway? Announcement ‘indefinitely’ delayed).
Back with the anthem soon.
Here come the Power
Port are out and through the banner. Loving Danny McGinlay’s ‘rejected banners’ (#rejectedbanners) on Twitter.
#rejectedbanners Port:
— Danny McGinlay (@dannymcginlay) September 9, 2017
WCE PLAY WELL IN ADELAIDE
EXPERTS ALL PROCLAIM
SO YOULL HAVE AN HONOURABLE LOSS
FOR PRIDDIS' LAST GAME #AFLPortEagles
Also enjoying this little dig at Brendon Goddard.
I'd hate to be a pretzel in the Essendon rooms right now... #AFLSwansBombers
— Danny McGinlay (@dannymcginlay) September 9, 2017
Reckon Josh is speaking for all of us with this sentiment.
NRL finals have been much better so far...
It's been an underwhelming finals series. 36, 51 and 65 point losses so far. Please tonight be a good game #AFLpowerEagles
— Josh (@Joshyg222) September 9, 2017
And the rest (NRL, Union)
This will be an AFL live-blog tonight (sorry, Rugby League/Union fans) but I will update you on the result of the Sea Eagles v Panthers clash, and also put up a story later on about the Wallabies v Springboks Championship Test in Perth.
Have heard that some Perth fans will boycott the match in protest of the axing of the Force. Others will attend the game in their blue Force jersey instead of the Wallaby gold. Earlier in the week, there were reports the Force could be headed to Asia.
AFL Port Adelaide v West Coast
No late changes for either side.
.#AFLPowerEagles: Pick up a Premiership Cup Pin and go into the running to win 2 x AFL Grand Final tickets!! #changethenumber pic.twitter.com/g3LVIS8nbI
— Ladder (@Ladder_) September 9, 2017
Loving the support the AFLW and AFL have shown to Ladder, who seek to create opportunities and space for young people to “build a future free of homelessness and full of possiblities”. More here.
Hi everyone, I’m Kate O’Halloran and I’m here to take over from Jonathan (thanks!) and cover the Port Adelaide v West Coast elimination final at the Adelaide Oval (from 7:50pm AEST). As always, feel free to tweet me: @kate_ohalloran, or email me: kate.ohalloran.freelance@guardian.co.uk – and we’ll have comment space for you this time, too.
You’d think the Power will be too strong with a home-ground advantage, but counter-intuitively, the West Coast Eagles will take to Adelaide Oval with an edge on their opponents. They have a 5-1 record against the Power at this ground, which includes the Eagles’ ten point win over the Port in round seven this year (that said, Power emerged victorious in their last clash, in Perth in round 17). The Eagles have also won six of the last nine contests between these sides since 2011. And for all the talk of West Coast being flat-track bullies, Port Adelaide haven’t beaten a side above them this year.
That said, the Eagles have lost three of four finals in Adelaide, and the last time these sides met in the finals was when Port won their qualifying final against West Coast in 2007 (by three points). As we saw with the Tigers last night, historical records matter for little when almost the whole ground is behind you, and you’re running with form. Port won three games straight to finish the season, while the Eagles were much more inconsistent, and ultimately lucky to sneak into finals on the back of the Demons’ capitulation. Still, last week’s heroics against the Crows look to have rejuvenated the team, who will welcome the finals experience of recruit Sam Mitchell. Watch out for him to be a class above, but also for the Eagles’ sharp shooter Josh Kennedy to cause havoc for Port Adelaide’s defensive six; in the absence of Tom Jonas (suspended) and Jack Hombsch (hip), I assume Tom Clurey will take him, but expect to see several rotated through depending on his influence. The enigmatic Jack Darling plays his 150th game tonight, and will likely be an important second fiddle to his formidable teammate.
Reckon Charlie Dixon will be key to the Power’s hopes, and could kick a bag to see his team home. The Power are first for inside 50s this year, so expect them to give their forwards plenty of chances. Paddy Ryder, who edged Sam Jacobs for the the All Australian ruck spot, will likewise be integral to his side’s fortunes. If he can link up with the likes of Robbie Gray (see: the final seconds against St Kilda) then I think the Power should come away with the win*.
The winner of this game goes into an elimination final against GWS. If they can win that, they’ll face the rampaging Tigers in a preliminary final. Let’s just take it one week at a time, shall we?
*genuinely considering giving up on tipping in these previews, since I tipped a narrow Geelong victory last night...
To take you through this busy smorgasbord of sport will be Kate O’Halloran, which means I’m done for the day. Time to put my worn out fingertips in ice and enjoy all the footy on offer.
Catch you here next week for more of the same.
Aaaaand breathe.
That’s the afternoon action taken care of, now it’s time to look forward to the evening session.
There’s more AFL with the Power hosting the Eagles, more NRL with Penrith travelling to Manly, and the small matter of the Wallabies taking on the Springboks in Perth.
Storm forced to battle for preliminary final spot
It wasn’t supposed to be this tough for the minor premiers but the Melbourne Storm staged a rousing second half fightback to overcome a dogged Parramatta Eels outfit at AAMI Park.
Cameron Smith celebrated the NRL appearance record in style and he was joined in the record books by Billy Slater who crossed to become the all-time leading try-scorer in finals.
After an early unconverted try the Storm were shellshocked by Cameron Munster’s sin-binning, enabling the Eels to register two tries and take the break with a 10-6 lead.
The deficit was wiped out in no time though with two sublime tries early in the second half. First Kenny Bromwich benefited from a ten-pass last tackle play before Slater collected an Addo-Carr chip to cross for his milestone.
A Smith penalty on 62 minutes looked to have sealed things but Parramatta refused to give in and set up a barnstorming finale with a crazy try four minutes later. Semi Radradra took the honours but it was Brad Takairangi’s quick thinking that created the opportunity.
The Storm now have a week off followed by a home preliminary final. The Eels will host the Sharks or the Cowboys in a semi-final next week.
Melbourne Storm 18 (Josh Addo-Carr, Kenny Bromwich, Billy Slater; Cameron Smith 3 goals)
Parramatta Eels 16 (Kirisome Auva’a, Will Smith, Semi Radradra; Mitchell Moses 2 goals)
AAMI Park. Crowd: 22,626
Dominant Swans fly into semi-final
Sydney laid down the gauntlet to the rest of the AFL with an awesome demolition of Essendon in their elimination final at the SCG. A record crowd witnessed as one-sided a contest as you could imagine, sparked by a second-quarter Lance Franklin clinic.
After an even start Sydney began to assert themselves in the opening term, groundwork that was ruthlessly exploited in the second quarter. The Swans booted ten in that spell, Franklin four, and the game was over in the blink of an eye. Essendon never gave up but from half-an-hour in they were playing for second place.
It was a blistering display all over the ground from the Swans. The combination of the impressive Callum Sinclair alongside Franklin up forward validated the non-selection of Kurt Tippett. Sinclair highlighted how good Sydney were overheard with a series of early contested marks setting the tone for a performance of aerial dominance.
The formidable midfield unit suffocated the Bombers and enabled first use from the majority of centre clearances. Defensively the home halfback line read everything the visitors threw at it. It was an ominous all-round display.
The one negative of the day was a corked thigh to Franklin in the first half. He spent most of the breaks riding the stationary bike and wasn’t seen in a redundant final quarter.
It was a sad way for Dons veterans Jobe Watson and James Kelly to bow out but they would have appreciated how outstanding their opponents proved on the day.
Sydney now move onto a semi-final with Geelong at the MCG. Remarkably, after starting the season 0-6 they will begin that contest favourites against the side that ended the home and away season second on the ladder.
Sydney win by 65 points
Sydney 19.7 (121) v Essendon 8.8 (56)
AFL Q4 08.00 remaining Sydney 19.7 (121) v Essendon 7.8 (50)
Ted Richards is enjoying himself. Worth exploring this entire thread of timber treats.
#
— Ted Richards (@tedrichards25) September 9, 2017
C
H
O
P
C
H
O
P#AFLFinals #AFLSwansBombers pic.twitter.com/f6rgLuWyD6
AFL Q4 11.00 remaining Sydney 18.6 (114) v Essendon 6.8 (44)
The record crowd has been treated to a clinic this afternoon. Papley with his first, and Sydney’s 18th.
Highest ever attendance for AFL match @scg for @sydneyswans v @EssendonFC final 46,323. Previous highest was 46,168 Swans v Geelong in 1997.
— AFL House (@AFL_House) September 9, 2017
AFL Q4 12.19 remaining Sydney 17.6 (108) v Essendon 6.8 (44)
Essendon are not going gently into that good night but the air has well and truly gone out of this contest.
Someone had to be unlucky eighth and meet Swans in elim final - unlikely Demons would have fared any better for all that angst.
— Mick Ellis (@MickEllis) September 9, 2017
Sydney lead by 69 at three-quarter time
AFL 3QT Sydney 17.5 (107) v Essendon 5.8 (32)
Does Buddy have a little bit of hair-envy? #AFLSwansDons #AFLFinals pic.twitter.com/j8xy10TE2N
— AFL (@AFL) September 9, 2017
AFL Q3 01.59 remaining Sydney 17.5 (107) v Essendon 4.8 (32)
Sydney continuing to boss this final and lay down a marker to the rest of the competition. The stats are not disproportionally in their favour but the ones that stand out are contested marks and marks inside 50. Overhead they have dominated Essendon with 16 marks to four inside-50 and 21 contested marks to seven.
In case you were wondering how things were going in Sydney?
Three goals to Cal Sinclair - the Swans lead by 69 points. #AFLSwansDons #AFLFinals pic.twitter.com/gXzZvNZrmo
— AFL (@AFL) September 9, 2017
Storm beat Eels by 2 points
Storm 18-16 Eels
The Storm make no mistake with their final set, safely navigating the last minute of play to secure a hard fought victory.
NRL: 78:45 Storm 18-16 Eels
The Eels get 5m out on the final tackle and Moses’ lofts the crossfield kick but Chambers soars and takes the contested mark to settle Storm’s nerves. Eels probably have one more possession remaining.
Or do they? With 70 seconds on the clock Glasby slips into the Brown tackle and collects a swinging arm to his head. Storm earn a penalty with a minute left.
NRL: 76:30 Storm 18-16 Eels
Storm use their set to take 90-seconds off the clock and leave the Eels 95m with just three-minutes on the clock. That proposition eases with Parramatta’s first penalty of the second half.
FYI, penalty count 5-1 the Storm’s way in the second half.
NRL: 75:00 Storm 18-16 Eels
Solid sets from both sides but the Eels are chasing the game from deep in their own territory. A desperately unlucky kick from Norman rolls half a ball’s length over the in-goal and Melbourne can milk the clock from dangerous field position.
Called back.#NRLStormEels 18-16 with 7 minutes to go.#NRLFinals#NRL pic.twitter.com/1HwNEQzFz5
— NRL (@NRL) September 9, 2017
NRL: 72:35 Storm 18-16 Eels
King’s going to play on, which seemed unlikely when he was in the hands of trainers and he does his stuff at dummy half in a solid set for the Eels.
The Storm look more dangerous with ball in hand heading the other way, Addo-Carr finding open field to set up three dangerous opportunities. From the first of those Addo-Carr thinks he’s scored in the corner after some smart hands from Chambers but a fraction of a stud clipped the whitewash on his way into the corner. A matter of millimetres keeping this game alive for the Eels.
NRL: 70:00 Storm 18-16 Eels
The Eels have lifted in intensity since that score and the Storm are rocking. A terrific clearing kick buys them some time though, and they get further chance to regroup as Cameron King is attended to by trainers with what looks like a nasty left forearm injury.
Massive ten minutes coming up.
NRL: 67:00 Storm 18-16 Eels (Radradra try - converted)
Crazy try from the Eels who utilise a seven-tackle set. On the last they kick, rescue possession, throw the ball from side to side without much penetration but then from a dropped pass Ma’u somehow collects the pill, evades two tacklers and feeds Radradra to run unopposed under the posts.
The @TheParraEels get one back.
— NRL (@NRL) September 9, 2017
And it is an absolute cracker!#NRLFinals#NRL pic.twitter.com/2r2pSnRHpM
Updated
NRL: 62:30 Storm 18-10 Eels (Smith penalty)
Neither side are playing to their full potential, typified by a lazy forward pass from the Eels who haven’t completed any of their last three sets.
The Storm take advantage of the turnover, ending with Alvaro committing soft penalty on Slater to enable Smith to kick the home side beyond a converted try in front.
57' Alvaro put on report for a swinging elbow which catches Tim Glasby high #BringTheThunder #CAM356
— Melbourne Storm (@storm) September 9, 2017
We’ll stay with the NRL until its conclusion now.
Quickly over to the NRL where the Eels led 10-6 at half time over the Storm.
And then this happened:
What did we just watch!
— NRL (@NRL) September 9, 2017
Unbelievable!#NRLFinals#NRL pic.twitter.com/GuKLEA4qh2
... and this:
Billy Slater is now the greatest try-scorer in #NRLFinals history!@billyslater.#NRLFinals#NRL pic.twitter.com/lHF99izyxH
— NRL (@NRL) September 9, 2017
Sydney lead by 61 at half-time
Sydney 13.5 (83) v Essendon 3.4 (22)
Put a fork in this one, it is done.
AFL Q2 01.19 remaining Sydney 13.5 (83) v Essendon 3.4 (22)
KENNEDY!
— Sydney Swans (@sydneyswans) September 9, 2017
Courageous mark and as cool as you like, kicks another goal.
Do we expect anything less from our skipper?#goswans #AFLSwansDons
AFL Q2 02.51 remaining Sydney 12.5 (77) v Essendon 3.3 (21)
A better spell for the Bombers ends with Myers sharking some good work from Bellchambers and kicking Essendon’s second of the quarter.
It doesn’t take long for Towers to restore Sydney’s authority though courtesy of more excellent overhead marking.
As Cameron Ling asks on TV, how on earth was this side 0-6 at the start of the year?
AFL Q2 05.44 remaining Sydney 11.5 (71) v Essendon 2.3 (15)
If you thought a comeback was on, you thought wrong. Rohan finds Franklin on the lead, once again leaving Ambrose for dust, and the half-fit phenomenon slots his fourth of the quarter.
AFL Q2 08.35 remaining Sydney 10.5 (65) v Essendon 2.3 (15)
The rot stops!
Finally some ball for Essendon, and in the hands of Zach Merrett, the player they most want in possession, and he finds Begley with a smart crossfield pass. Begley does the rest to settle Bomber nerves.
AFL Q2 09.39 remaining Sydney 10.4 (64) v Essendon 1.3 (9)
This is getting silly now, Kennedy with the TENTH unanswered goal. I know this is a final, but we might be calling for the mercy rule pretty soon.
Geelong must be delighted watching this.
No words right now...
— Essendon FC (@EssendonFC) September 9, 2017
🔻 58
✈️ 9#FinalsChapter
When you choose Ambrose to take Buddy instead of the All Aus CHB. #aflswansbombers pic.twitter.com/ZvOVC1EeVn
— Luke Holmesby (@LukeHolmesby) September 9, 2017
AFL Q2 10.27 remaining Sydney 9.4 (58) v Essendon 1.3 (9)
Make that nine in a row...
AFL Q2 11.02 remaining Sydney 8.4 (52) v Essendon 1.3 (9)
This is spectacular overhead from Sydney so far. 14-3 they lead contested marks with Mills the latest to turn defence into attack; an attack that leads to Heeney kicking his first of the day.
This quarter has been devastating. Eight unanswered goals in 38 minutes.
AFL Q2 12.32 remaining Sydney 7.3 (45) v Essendon 1.3 (9)
This is one-way traffic. Parker with an eye-catching mark, delivers to Sinclair who has been immense so far and his strong hands create an opportunity for the tall forward to turn his set shot into a snap and a beautifully curled goal.
Dons been poor for clearances and contested ball all year. Coming home to roost. #aflswansdons
— Rohan Connolly (@rohan_connolly) September 9, 2017
AFL Q2 14.01 remaining Sydney 6.3 (39) v Essendon 1.3 (9)
Sydney are doing the business all over the SCG. Franklin and Sinclair bossing the forward line, the midfield unit dominating clearances, and any sniff Essendon have going forward is snuffed out by the crew of excellent intercept markers across halfback.
A barnstorming Buddy kicks his second goal in a 90 seconds. #AFLSwansDons #AFLFinals pic.twitter.com/oa8bcGqf7q
— AFL (@AFL) September 9, 2017
AFL Q2 16.25 remaining Sydney 6.2 (38) v Essendon 1.3 (9)
Sinclair again dominating in the air. His latest contested mark turns a hopeful punt down the line into a dangerous ball inside 50. The big man then turns, finds Franklin, who is monstering poor Ambrose, steadies himself after the mark and kicks with glorious ease from an inconvenient angle. Three in the quarter already for Buddy, what a force of nature.
Few stats...
— Sydney Swans (@sydneyswans) September 9, 2017
- Towers lively (8 disp, 3 cl, 1 goal)
- Sinclair a presence (4 marks, 1 goal)
- Kennedy with 7 disp @ 85% efficiency#goswans
Updated
AFL Q2 18.28 remaining Sydney 5.2 (32) v Essendon 1.3 (9)
Another centre clearance win for the Swans, another chance for Buddy, another goal. In the blink of an eye Franklin has two and Sydney are pulling clear.
The quarter time bike did the trick! 🚴 Buddy kicks the first goal of the second quarter. #AFLSwansDons #AFLFinals pic.twitter.com/zV0ALdpELt
— AFL (@AFL) September 9, 2017
Updated
AFL Q2 19.08 remaining Sydney 4.2 (26) v Essendon 1.3 (9)
Sydney began to dominate centre clearances during that opening quarter and they start the second term in like mind, bursting out of the middle, finding the supposedly unfit Franklin, who rockets one through from 50m out.
Updated
Eels lead by 6 at half-time
Well, well, well. This wasn’t how the script was supposed to go for Cam Smith’s milestone.
During that quarter of AFL action the picture in the NRL changed considerably.
Storm’s Cameron Munster was sin-binned midway through the opening half and the Eels took full advantage, scoring twice, to take an unlikely lead.
The @TheParraEels take swift advantage of their overlap!#NRLFinals#NRL pic.twitter.com/T35At7PnOB
— NRL (@NRL) September 9, 2017
That pass from @mitchmoses6!
— NRL (@NRL) September 9, 2017
Will Smith scores for @TheParraEels.#NRLFinals #NRL pic.twitter.com/0qN1E0k9Ax
Sydney lead by 11 at quarter time
A manic opening quarter ends with the Swans with their noses in front. Essendon should have been closer but Heppell spilled a mark 30m out right on the siren.
AFL Q1 02.25 remaining Sydney 3.2 (20) v Essendon 1.2 (8)
Sydney’s defensive structure is superb so far. Picking off long balls across halfback, forcing Joe Daniher wide and into midfield to try and find the ball. From that foundation they’re able to build without significantly hurting Essendon yet.
AFL Q1 05.05 remaining Sydney 3.2 (20) v Essendon 1.2 (8)
The pressure continues from the Swans though and after more good work overhead from Sinclair, Jack wobbles one between the big sticks to add to the buffer.
AFL Q1 06.07 remaining Sydney 2.2 (14) v Essendon 1.2 (8)
Apparently Franklin’s injury is a corked thigh. He now has a heat pack underneath his compression shorts but he’s not running freely.
His teammates make a mess of what should have been a goal. Newman took an excellent mark but his pass to Jones was underhit and a clear shooting opportunity became a scrappy defensive clearance.
AFL Q1 08.14 remaining Sydney 2.2 (14) v Essendon 1.2 (8)
Terrific mark from Sinclair plucks a hopeful punt inside 50 out of the air, leaving Hurley trailing in his wake. He kicks truly and the Swans are back in front.
Updated
AFL Q1 09.50 remaining Sydney 1.2 (8) v Essendon 1.2 (8)
No great rhythm to the game yet as you might expect in this era of pressure pressure pressure. Essendon’s ball skills have probably been the superior but Sydney’s defence has covered all bases.
That is until Zaharakis lays a solid tackle on Jones just 20m out but he snaps his set shot wide. Scores level again.
Potentially major news with Franklin injured in a marking contest. His already strapped right knee was knocked and the Coleman Medalist is very proppy indeed.
AFL Q1 12.50 remaining Sydney 1.2 (8) v Essendon 1.1 (7)
Sydney continue to pressurise after that goal. Kennedy finding Reid with strong hands on the lead on the arc, but his shot lacks the distance and the margin increases only a fraction.
The visitors rebound successfully this time and Stewart is the beneficiary of a horrendous turnover by Isaac Heeney. He can’t make it count though, sliding his shot from 40m behind for a point.
Updated
AFL Q1 15.25 remaining Sydney 1.1 (7) v Essendon 1.0 (6)
Franklin has his first look at goal, spinning Ambrose just outside 50m but he shoots early into an open goal when he could have carried the ball further and his shot drifts wide.
The Swans apply ferocious pressure to the Bombers though and they can’t clear their lines. Eventually Heppell is caught holding the ball allowing Towers a shot from 30m out on a tight angle. He runs around, snaps across his body and puts his team into the lead.
AFL Q1 17.54 remaining Sydney 0.0 (0) v Essendon 1.0 (6)
Predictably hot footy early on but Essendon are enjoying the better of it. Oh yes they are! Joe Daniher with a ripping mark just two minutes in. Pushing off his man Rampe, rebounding like a pinball off the back of Grundy, propelling him into a spectacular mark. He honours the grab with the game’s opening goal. Spectacular start for the Dons.
Updated
Underway at the SCG!
This is going to be a fun couple of hours. Hold tight!
Meanwhile, over in Melbourne, the Storm have wasted no time at all getting into their work.
3' Is that a TRY!?? Yes it is! JAC opens the scoring! 4-0 KTC. What a start! #BringTheThunder
— Melbourne Storm (@storm) September 9, 2017
The @storm go over!
— NRL (@NRL) September 9, 2017
Addo-Carr grabs the Try.#NRLFinals#NRL pic.twitter.com/8coSUnmvrM
Updated
The players are out on the SCG, the anthems have been sung, the coaches have shared a handshake, and we’re all set to go.
Some stats to refer back to at full time and pillory.
- Essendon haven’t beaten Sydney since 2011
- The Bombers haven’t won a final since 2004
- No team has more finals experience in 2017 than Sydney with a combined 267 games. By contrast, Essendon muster only 85.
- Coleman Medalist Lance Franklin kicks more goals against Essendon than any other team.
Teams:
Essendon go in as listed on Thursday.
Sydney make one late change with Harry Cunningham coming in for Lewis Melican, who has quad soreness.
It’s a glorious day in Sydney and the SCG is in fine fettle. It’s sunny, dry, around 17C, with the only minor concern for players a southerly breeze.
The calm before the storm.... the @scg will be packed in a few hours! #ProudlySydney pic.twitter.com/2YG1jKjRVO
— Sydney Swans (@sydneyswans) September 9, 2017
The deciding Test between England and West Indies is a low-scoring affair that remains in the balance after two hectic days. But the match is playing second fiddle to James Anderson’s accomplishment of becoming only the third fast bowler to take 500 Test wickets.
The US Open final match-ups have been decided. It’s an all-American affair in the women’s singles, while Rafael Nadal will be hot favourite to secure his 16th career Grand Slam in the men’s as he takes on South African Kevin Anderson.
On Thursday night Adelaide thumped the Giants and last night Richmond became the second side through to the AFL preliminary finals with a crushing victory over Geelong in front of over 95,000 fans at the MCG. It was a demonstration of the role of pressure in the modern game with the Tigers hunting in packs for four quarters, mercilessly exposing Geelong’s poor ball movement. The lid is very much off in Tigertown.
In the NRL Sydney’s Roosters have earned a week off with a thrilling 24-22 win over the Brisbane Broncos. After securing a 14-0 lead the Roosters watched the Broncos claw back the deficit before a thrilling finale went the favour of the home side.
Let’s get up to speed with what’s already happened overnight and earlier today.
September to remember
Good afternoon and welcome to another Saturday Sportwatch.
It’s a September-to-remember finals special today with a pair of blockbuster fixtures in both the AFL and NRL taking centre stage.
Our focus will begin with Sydney’s elimination final against Essendon at the SCG from 4.20pm. Just one place separated these sides on the ladder but the Swans enter the playoffs arguably the form side in the competition after losing just twice in their past 16 matches. However, when these sides met at the same venue in round 14 the Bombers looked certain to win until a late Sydney blitz turned a 19-point deficit into a one-point victory. The winner meets Geelong at the MCG next weekend.
While attention is trained on the SCG a close eye will be kept on AAMI Park where the minor premiers Melbourne Storm welcome the Parramatta Eels in a qualifying final from 4.10pm. The full strength Storm are near unbackable favourites and will expect to celebrate skipper Cameron Smith breaking the NRL’s all-time appearance record in style.
Kate O’Halloran will take the reins this evening and begin by steering us through the AFL’s second elimination final of the day, Port Adelaide’s clash with West Coast at Adelaide Oval, from 7.50pm. The Eagles scraped into the finals by the finest of margins but they’ve won five of their past six in the city of churches, suggesting tonight’s event may not be the foregone conclusion it appears at first glance. The two sides are battling for the right to unseat the Giants on their own turf next week.
At 7.40pm Manly host Penrith in an NRL elimination final at Allianz Stadium. This pair met just a week ago with the Sea Eagles storming past the Panthers and into the finals. Penrith will hope a change of venue leads to a change of fortune and the right to challenge the Broncos in a semi final.
If that’s not enough, there’s international rugby on the menu too with the Wallabies taking on the Springboks from 8pm at NIB stadium in Perth. Australia will be looking to put a testing Bledisloe campaign and a mountain of domestic strife behind it against a South African side unbeaten in 2017. This one is worth keeping an eye on for the crowd as much as anything. Will Australia even have home support considering everything that’s gone on with the Western Force and the ARU in recent weeks?
All of that, plus everything else that happens in the world of sport on this September Saturday.
Updated
Jonathan will be here shortly.
