Western Bulldogs show defensive resilience under James O’Donnell but face scoring concerns with Sam Darcy injured ahead of a tough match with Collingwood.

Hayward has been in strong form, boasting 24 goals for the season and a burst of nine goals across his last four games, including a three-goal performance against Geelong.

Ben King appears set to join Hawthorn as a deep forward, with Gunston mentoring, while Calshar Dear’s market status remains a topic amid a tough season for him.

Injury-based selections include replacements like Callum Ah Chee for Zac Taylor, with James Peatling managing soreness, and Fremantle hopeful for returns from Jye Amiss, Heath Chapman, and Sam Switkowski for a qualifying final.

Geelong plans a focused challenge to disrupt Carlton, drawing on lessons from their earlier loss and acknowledging Carlton as form leaders.

Eight Fremantle Dockers players are in contention for All-Australian selection, underscoring the club’s strong awards presence and the potential for a club-record four or more representatives in the final team.

Sophie Van De Heuvel will miss the start of the season due to a hamstring injury and will be assessed for a return.

Melbourne led by 21 points in the opening term without Jake Lever, Jacob van Rooyen, and Matt Jefferson, but could not maintain the advantage due to wayward finishing.

The AFL Awards 2026 in Melbourne will showcase the league’s top talent, with Fremantle and West Coast players prominently represented as they reflect on a challenging season.

Amelia Radford is out until early in the season after ACL surgery, with her return to testing status still to come.

Cripps sustained a knock to a strapped knee in Carlton’s Wildcard Final win but Weitering expects him to be fit with a quick turnaround and planned recovery.

Tactical adjustments, including lineup changes to manage injured stars and how players return through fitness tests, are a focus for teams ahead of finals.