The finals kick off with a bang this Saturday as GWS (5th) host Hawthorn (8th) at Engie Stadium. First bounce is 3:15 PM AEST—and for one side, September ends as quickly as it starts.
🏟️ The Setup
The AFL locked it in after a nail-biting last round: the Giants get the home elimination final, the Hawks sneak into eighth. This is the first time these two clash in a final, and the stakes couldn’t be clearer—win or pack the bags.
⚡ Why the Giants Should Fancy Themselves
Form line? Outstanding. GWS have won nine of their last ten, and they’re near unbeatable at Engie—7–1 at home this season. Add their slick ball movement through Lachie Whitfield and Lachie Ash, and it’s easy to see why the Giants head in as favourites.
🦅 The Hawks’ Case to Believe
Yes, Hawthorn have been up and down against top-tier sides. But don’t forget—they beat GWS back in Round 3. James Sicily has also thrown his support behind a possible Josh Weddle return. If the young defender gets the green light, it’s a timely boost for a team that thrives on structure.
🧩 Style v Consistency
The Hawks play to their strengths: a stubborn defence and a quirky forward setup. But inconsistency and injury clouds linger. Against a Giants side humming with confidence, they’ll need four quarters of their best footy. One lapse, and it’s curtains.
🔑 Weddle Watch
Hawthorn skipper James Sicily says Josh Weddle is “ready to go” if cleared, after recovering from a back injury and shining in the VFL. His pace and versatility could be exactly what the Hawks need against a Giants forward line that loves to spread defenders thin. One inclusion might change the balance.
📱 Final Word
Momentum says Giants. History says Hawks can’t be written off. Finals say anything can happen.
Bring on the game—this one has all the makings of a genuine September classic. Remember, you can see 2025 AFL Finals matches in style in a Medallion club seat at the MCG or a Stadium Club seat at Adelaide Oval.
