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Digby’s AFL Finals Week 2 Preview

Posted on | Posted by Digby Beacham

Hawthorn v Western Bulldogs

Friday, MCG 5.50pm

The Western Bulldogs couldn’t have been more impressive against West Coast last week, producing a four-quarter effort that validated their season. They now need to raise the bar further if they are to stay alive. Hawthorn have owned September for the bulk of the past four years and will be intent on making a statement early, just as they did 12 months ago in a semifinal against Adelaide.

The Hawks will be conscious of slowing down the ball movement of the Bulldogs, whose willingness to get an extra body or two around the contest enables them to handball their way through congestion. There is no denying this Hawthorn side isn’t at the level of the 2013-15 premiership outfits, but they still boast wonderful leadership and oodles of big-game experience. That might just be the difference.

VERDICT: Hawthorn by 11 points.

1st goal scorer: Jack Gunston

​Sydney v Adelaide

Saturday, SCG 5.25pm

Sydney wouldn’t have envisaged they would end up here — a cutthroat semifinal — when they secured the minor premiership for only the third time in club history. But that is their plight and the task of halting a dangerous midfield and potent forward line will ensure they don’t have time to feel sorry for themselves.

Of all the match-ups in what promises to be a cracking contest, the one between the dynamic Eddie Betts and Nick Smith shapes as the most crucial. Smith is an elite small defender with plenty of scalps throughout his career and must find a way to harness Betts, who is the Crows’ spark plug. Smith’s job will be easier if his midfielders aren’t overwhelmed like they were against Greater Western Sydney.

VERDICT: Sydney by 20 points.

1st goal scorer: Lance Franklin

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