FIRST SEMI-FINAL
Melbourne v Carlton, MCG, Friday, Sept 15, 7.50pm AEST
Melbourne can be determined to keep away from a second consecutive straight-sets finals exit. Thursday night time’s qualifying ultimate defeat to Collingwood was an equal club-record third straight loss in a ultimate since their drought-breaking 2021 premiership. The Demons can be with out midfielder Angus Brayshaw (concussion), in addition to Jacob van Rooyen (suspension) if the membership cannot clear the younger ahead on the tribunal. Melbourne dominated inside 50s 69-37 towards the Magpies however outdated issues with their dysfunctional ahead line got here again to hang-out them. Carlton can be seeking to construct on the momentum of their thrilling six-point win over Sydney – their first ultimate since 2013. But like Melbourne, the Blues can be with out two essential gamers. Key ahead Harry McKay (concussion) has already been dominated out, whereas versatile ahead Jack Martin has been given a two-match suspension, which Carlton have already mentioned they are going to attraction on the tribunal.
* Head-to-head
Overall: Melbourne 97 wins, Carlton 119 wins, 2 attracts
In Finals: Melbourne 6 wins, Carlton 2 wins
Last time: Round 22, 2023: Carlton 9.6 (60) beat Melbourne 8.8 (56) at MCG
SECOND SEMI-FINAL
Port Adelaide v GWS, Adelaide Oval, Saturday, Sept 16, 7.40pm AEST
Port Adelaide had been left humbled by a 48-point defeat to Brisbane on the Lions’ Gabba fortress within the qualifying ultimate. The Power’s defensive woes look to have deepened with Trent McKenzie (ankle) and Dylan Williams (hamstring) unlikely to tackle GWS after each had been harm in a chaotic third quarter towards the Lions. Ken Hinkley’s facet will take confidence out of smashing GWS by 51 factors solely a month in the past. But the Giants won’t worry going to the Adelaide Oval, having received at a report 11 totally different venues this season. The Giants performed some scintillating soccer to defeat St Kilda in Saturday’s elimination ultimate on the MCG. GWS nonetheless have a variety of gamers who memorably made a grand ultimate from sixth by successful two finals on the street.
* Head-to-head
Overall: Port Adelaide 8 wins, GWS 6 wins
In Finals: Nil
Last time: Round 22, 2023: Port Adelaide 21.10 (136) beat GWS 13.7 (85) at Adelaide Oval
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
