AFL finals 2024: Fixtures for first week of finals set after crazy last day of home-and-away action

After a final day of the home-and-away season that had to be seen to be believed, the top eight is set in stone — and Fremantle has missed out.

Here is the fixture for the first week of finals — with the days and times to be settled on Monday morning.

PORT ADELAIDE V GEELONG (ADELAIDE OVAL)

Thursday September 5, 5.40pm WA time

The final weeks of the season have been bruising for Port Adelaide, including Sunday night’s arm wrestle with Fremantle. The bye couldn’t have come at a better time.

A decision looms for the Cats. Their forward line has been functioning so well, does it have room for the retiring Tom Hawkins?

WESTERN BULLDOGS V HAWTHORN (MCG)

Friday September 6, 5.40pm WA time

The best show in footy — the rampaging Hawks — are heading back to the MCG to take on the Western Bulldogs in a cut-throat final.

It’s a far cry from Ballarat, where Luke Beveridge’s Bulldogs beat GWS on the final day to lock themselves into sixth spot.

SYDNEY V GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY (SYDNEY CRICKET GROUND)

Saturday September 7, 1.20pm WA time

It’s a battle of the bridge in September for the second time. The Swans had already nailed down the minor premiership and the Giants, who could have finished as high as fourth, slipped back to fourth with defeat to the Western Bulldogs.

Regardless of the result, Sydney will host three straight weeks of finals and it has been reported the Swans requested Friday night as their preferred slot.

BRISBANE V CARLTON (GABBA)

Saturday September 7, 5.30pm WA time

Carlton hearts broke when the Lions trampled all over their early lead in last year’s preliminary final. Now the Blues get another crack up north.

Michael Voss’ battered and bruised side a set to welcome a host of stars for the clash with last year’s grand finalists.