Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 11, 2024 2:39 pm GMT
The excitement in Australian football reached a fever pitch this weekend as the VFL, SANFL, and WAFL finals commenced, showcasing some of the best talent in state league footy. Fans eagerly tuned in to witness the high-stakes battles that ultimately would lead a select few teams to their respective grand finals. Among the highlights, preliminary finals drew particular attention as teams vied for glory, particularly in the VFL, where Brisbane faced Werribee in a must-watch encounter.
Thrilling Preliminary Finals in the VFL
The VFL preliminary finals held a promise of intense competition, and they did not disappoint. Werribee and Brisbane kicked off the weekend’s events at Avalon Airport Oval. For Brisbane, this marked their third consecutive appearance in a preliminary final, hoping to break a trend of losses from previous seasons against both Werribee and Casey. The stakes were high as they aimed for a spot in the VFL Grand Final scheduled for September 22.
Werribee emerged victorious with a 20-point win, effectively ending Brisbane’s season. The match was a nail-biter; Brisbane held an 11-point lead at three-quarter-time but could not maintain their advantage, conceding six goals in the final quarter. This dramatic collapse led to Werribee’s triumph, showcasing the competitive spirit inherent in state league football.
Player Performances and Injury Concerns
Despite the disappointing outcome for the Lions, several players exhibited commendable performances. Jarryd Lyons shone brightly in what was his final match for the team, finishing with 28 disposals and nine clearances. His ability to control the game was evident, and he left an impression that will resonate with fans. Young players like Devon Robertson also made significant contributions, recording 22 disposals and 15 tackles in a strong showing.
However, the preliminary final also brought injury concerns for Brisbane. Bruce Reville, who had been pivotal in his performance with 17 disposals, suffered a hamstring issue, and teammate Shadeau Brain played through the pain of a shoulder injury. Both players’ injuries may have serious implications for their potential selection in the upcoming AFL preliminary final against Geelong.
Footscray vs. Southport: A Captivating Clash
In another vital match, Footscray hosted Southport at Whitten Oval in a contest that promised to be just as thrilling. Both teams were determined to secure their place in the VFL Grand Final against Werribee. As the stakes heightened, Footscray sought momentum following their recent performances, while Southport was eager to capitalize on any opportunities to progress further in the finals.
Preview of SANFL and WAFL Matches
The focus on state league finals extends beyond the VFL. Fans turned their attention to the SANFL and WAFL as well. In the SANFL, Central District faced Glenelg at the Adelaide Oval, while Swan Districts prepared to meet Peel Thunder in a crucial WAFL preliminary final. Central District went into their match after a week off, aiming to leverage the rest to their advantage against a motivated Glenelg squad. Conversely, Peel Thunder entered their game after a captivating one-point victory over Claremont, ready to prove their resilience on the field.
Live Streaming Access for Fans
For fans wishing to follow the action, the AFL has ensured widespread accessibility through live streaming. Every game in the 2024 VFL, VFLW, SANFL, and WAFL seasons is available to stream LIVE and FREE on the AFL Live Official App and AFL.com.au. Fans can also cast games from their mobile devices to their televisions, enhancing the viewing experience as they cheer for their teams from the comfort of their homes.
Impact of State League Footy on the National Stage
The AFL’s commitment to live streaming state league games reflects a broader effort to promote grassroots and developmental football in Australia. By providing greater exposure for players and clubs, the AFL aims to showcase talent and assist aspiring athletes in securing opportunities at higher levels, including the AFL and AFLW. The visibility of regional matches can also play a crucial role in scouting potential recruits, allowing clubs to identify promising individuals early in their careers.
Looking Ahead to Grand Finals
As the dust settles on this weekend’s action, anticipation builds for the forthcoming grand finals. With Werribee earning their place in the VFL Grand Final, fans and analysts alike are now shifting their focus to how the teams performed during the preliminary final series and what strategies they may employ in the decisive matches. The SANFL and WAFL finals will soon conclude, determining which clubs will join Werribee in their pursuit of a championship.
The state leagues have started their finals with a lot of energy, showing off the amazing talent and competitive spirit of Australian football. Teams are fighting for a chance to win, and players are looking to show what they can do to reach even higher goals. The excitement is sure to keep building in the coming weeks. Right now, Liverpool is holding its breath, watching how their players are doing and hoping to have their best team ready for the important games ahead.
