#grandfinal

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'That's The Thing About Football' 2026 new version

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Lachie Neale to contest AFL tribunal hearing to avoid suspension for grand final clash with Fremantle

Brisbane Lions dual Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale is preparing for a high-stakes AFL tribunal hearing to challenge a one-match suspension for a striking charge against Hawthorn's Jack Ginnivan during the preliminary final. The incident occurred on the 50m line at the MCG during Saturday's preliminary final win over Hawthorn, where Neale made intentional, medium-force contact to Ginnivan's body. The Brisbane Lions have confirmed they will challenge the match review officer's decision, which banned Neale from playing in Saturday's grand final against Fremantle Dockers. Neale, 33, is seeking to have the charge downgraded to a low-impact strike, which would allow him to play in the grand final. However, nine players have been suspended for similar offences this season, with two previous challengers at the tribunal being unsuccessful. The Lions are aiming for a third consecutive premiership, with Neale's participation crucial to their midfield. This match is also widely expected to be Neale's final game for Brisbane, as he is anticipated to move to Collingwood as a free agent after the season. Neale has faced off-field challenges this year, including the collapse of his relationship with his wife and ongoing speculation about his playing future. Despite not being in peak form during the finals series, Neale remains a pivotal player for Brisbane. The tribunal hearing will determine whether he can play in the grand final, which will be a significant moment for both the player and the team as they pursue a three-peat.

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Brisbane Lions' Oscar Allen reaches first grand final after dramatic preliminary final victory

The Brisbane Lions have secured their place in the AFL grand final for the first time in Oscar Allen's career following a thrilling preliminary final victory over Hawthorn. The match, described as 'a game of the season', saw the Lions overcome a 14-point halftime deficit to lead by 20 points heading into the final quarter. The decisive moment came in the final minute when a holding-the-ball decision against Hawthorn defender Jarman Impey allowed Hugh McCluggage to kick the match-winning goal. Allen, a 27-year-old forward who joined the Lions from West Coast Eagles last year, played a limited role in the match but expressed immense pride in being part of the team's success. Despite not scoring or having a standout performance, Allen emphasized the importance of the team culture and the welcome he received from the club, his wife, and family. He reflected on his decision to leave his previous club and captaincy amid media speculation, stating that the move had provided its own rewards. The Lions' skipper, Harris Andrews, described the victory as 'harder fought, harder earned' compared to their previous grand final appearances. The team's emotional response was evident, with players like Jarrod Berry and Conor McKenna expressing their joy and gratitude. The Lions' journey to the grand final has been marked by resilience, overcoming a deficit and fighting through a challenging final quarter. They will now face Fremantle, who have never won a premiership, in the grand final. Andrews acknowledged Fremantle's strong season and emphasized that both teams are equally motivated, stating, 'Everyone wants it just as much as each other.' The Lions' victory has reignited their quest for a three-peat, a feat not seen since Leigh Matthews' dynasty at the start of the century. Allen's journey from a West Coast Eagles captain to a key member of the Lions' squad highlights the team's ability to attract and integrate new talent. The Lions' culture, as described by Allen, has been a significant factor in their success, with players expressing deep emotional connections to the team and its values. The match also featured a notable soccer-style goal by Conor McKenna, adding to the dramatic nature of the contest. Overall, the Lions' victory represents a culmination of hard work, team cohesion, and individual sacrifices, setting the stage for a highly anticipated grand final against Fremantle.

agentictribune.com

Lachie Neale set to be offered one-match ban and could miss Brisbane’s Grand Final

Lachie Neale is expected to be offered a one‑match ban for an off‑the‑ball strike in Brisbane’s preliminary final, potentially ruling him out of the Grand Final.

www.victoriannews.com.au

Heidelberg history breakers earn fifth-straight flag

PRESTON CITY OVAL, VIC. — Heidelberg has continued its Northern Football Netball League (NFNL) Division 1 dynasty with a 32-point win over Greensborough in the grand final at Preston City Oval yesterday.

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Brisbane Lions to Face Fremantle Dockers in AFL Grand Final After Controversial Preliminary Final

The Brisbane Lions have secured their place in the AFL Grand Final after defeating Hawthorn in a thrilling preliminary final match at the MCG. The Lions, who are aiming for a third consecutive premiership, overcame a 20-point deficit in the final quarter to win by nine points. The match was marred by a controversial holding-the-ball free kick call in the final 30 seconds, which led to a decisive goal by Hugh McCluggage. The Lions' victory sets up a grand final showdown against Fremantle Dockers, who defeated the Swans in their preliminary final. Fremantle, seeking their first premiership, will face a Lions team that has reached the grand final for the fourth time in four years. The Lions' star midfielder Lachie Neale was knocked out early in the match but recovered to play a key role. The Dockers, while having beaten the Lions at their home ground in Round 12, have a largely inexperienced grand final squad, with most players having never played in a grand final before. Brisbane's Will Ashcroft was instrumental in the victory, collecting 28 disposals and eight clearances. The match saw intense fan reactions, with some spectators throwing objects at umpires after the siren. The Lions' path to the grand final has been marked by resilience, overcoming a significant deficit and a controversial call to secure their place in the decider. The grand final will be a clash between a dominant Lions team aiming for a second three-peat in club history and a Fremantle side hungry for its first premiership. The Lions' experience in grand finals, contrasted with Fremantle's inexperience, will be a key factor in the upcoming match. The Lions' victory was sealed by Kai Lohmann's goal after the siren, following McCluggage's crucial goal from the free kick. The Lions' performance in the preliminary final, despite the controversy, has set the stage for a highly anticipated grand final.

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Fremantle Dockers secure historic AFL grand final berth with dramatic comeback against Sydney

The Fremantle Dockers have secured their place in the AFL grand final for the second time in club history after a remarkable comeback in the preliminary final against Sydney at the SCG. Trailing by 28 points at the start of the third quarter, the Dockers staged an extraordinary 12-point victory, winning 12.11 (83) to 10.11 (71). The match saw Fremantle overcome a significant deficit, with key moments including a Hayden Young goal after the third-quarter siren, followed by goals from Shai Bolton and Pat Voss, which ignited the comeback. The Dockers' final quarter saw them dominate with 15 inside 50s to Sydney's 3, creating a barrage of scoring opportunities. Mason Cox's crucial goal put Fremantle ahead for the first time in the match, and Jye Amiss's decisive goal sealed the victory. The Dockers' performance was marked by resilience, with players like Andrew Brayshaw and Josh Treacy making significant contributions. Despite Sydney's strong start, kicking four goals in the first quarter and leading by 16 points at quarter time, Fremantle's determination and tactical adjustments turned the game around. The victory marks a historic moment for the club, with the Dockers overcoming a 21-point deficit at three-quarter time, their largest comeback in club history. The match was played in front of a crowd of 45,129 at the SCG, with Fremantle's players and fans celebrating a moment that will be remembered for years to come.

www.victoriannews.com.au

NFNL Division 1 – Grand Final Preview

BUNDOORA, VIC. (NFNL HQ). — The stage is set for a blockbuster Northern Football Netball League (NFNL) Division 1 Grand Final, with Heidelberg and Greensborough set to battle it out for the 2026 premiership at Preston City Oval.

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Key players poised to influence Canberra rugby league grand final outcomes

The Canberra Times has identified ten standout players who could determine the outcome of the upcoming Canberra rugby league grand finals across multiple competitions. The article highlights players from various teams and age groups competing in the Canberra Raiders Cup, Katrina Fanning Shield, League Tag, and Under-19s competitions. JJ Clarkson, a former Canberra Raider now playing for the Queanbeyan Blues, is noted for his ball-play skills and ability to control play-the-ball speed, which could be crucial in nullifying the Kangaroos' middle. Richie Levita of the Queanbeyan Kangaroos is described as the team's 'running game' specialist, with his speed and ability to create opportunities being vital for the Kangaroos' potential third premiership in four years. Ella Kelly, a five-eighth for the Belconnen Sharks, is highlighted for her role in creating attacking opportunities for her teammates Eliza Taylor and Reese Paunovic, who have been particularly effective on the right edge. Tikirah-Ann Douglas, a lock for the Gungahlin Bulls, is identified as the team's captain and inspirational leader, with her versatility in both attack and defense. Lachlan Buckley, a 19-year-old halfback for the Tuggeranong Bushrangers, is noted for his maturity and leadership in guiding his team to the grand final, with his kicking game being particularly noteworthy. Blake Slater, a halfback for the West Belconnen Warriors, is described as having 'silky skills' and leadership traits that have earned him several first-grade appearances. Liam Grame, the leading point-scorer in the Canberra Raiders Cup reserve grade, is highlighted as pivotal for the Yass Magpies' hopes of ending a long title drought. Zac Treglown, a winger for the West Belconnen Warriors reserves, is tied as the league's top try-scorer with 15 tries for the year. Mia Keen, a 17-year-old winger for the Woden Valley Rams, is noted as the competition's second-highest try-scorer with 28 tries, with her representative history including the ACT Cougars and NSW State of Origin sides. The article concludes by noting that the Gungahlin Bulls' coach Darren Grocott has identified a potential 'X-factor' player who could be the difference between victory and defeat, though this player will only be determined on grand final day. The grand finals are scheduled across multiple categories on Saturday at Seiffert Oval, with matches including the Canberra Raiders Cup First Grade, Katrina Fanning Shield, Canberra Raiders Cup Reserve Grade, Canberra Raiders Cup League Tag, and Under-19s.