Carlton Blues vs Sydney Swans | AFL Finals | Elimination Final Preview

The AFL Finals series is in full swing, and tonight’s Elimination Final promises to be another epic battle. After an electrifying Qualifying Final clash between the Pies and Melbourne, which saw the Pies emerge victorious in a nail-biter, fans are hungry for more drama and intensity. Carlton Blues and Sydney Swans are set to deliver just that at the hallowed MCG, with the game kicking off at 7:50 PM.

What makes this showdown even more intriguing is the journey both teams have taken to reach this point. Just three months ago, they seemed unlikely contenders for the finals, given their lackluster starts to the season. However, both Carlton and Sydney have orchestrated remarkable turnarounds, riding incredible winning streaks into September with their eyes firmly set on premiership success.

Blues in Form

The Blues, in particular, have been the team to watch in recent weeks. Their late-season charge has seen them defeat formidable flag contenders like Port Adelaide, Collingwood, and Melbourne, alongside dominant performances against teams lower down the ladder. Their form is red hot, and they appear poised to continue their winning ways.

One of the standout features of the Blues is their midfield dominance. They boast a midfield brigade that includes the likes of Patrick Cripps, Adam Cerra, Sam Walsh, and George Hewett, among others. This formidable lineup excels in clearance work and contested ball situations, making them a force to be reckoned with in the center.

Swans’ Challenge

In contrast, the Swans, while classy and dangerous, have a midfield that lacks size and ranks lower in contested ball stats compared to their rivals. Going up against the Blues, who are arguably the best in this department, is a significant challenge for Sydney. The contest in the middle will be pivotal to the outcome of this match.

Another factor that tips the scales in Carlton’s favor is their imposing key forward duo of Charlie Curnow and Harry McKay. The Swans’ defense is currently dealing with injury woes, leaving only Tom McCartin to contend with these towering forwards. This mismatch could prove costly for Sydney, as they may need to rely on smaller and medium-sized defenders to fill the void.

Home Ground Advantage

Adding to the Blues’ advantage is the raucous support they’ll receive from their fans at the MCG. With over 80 thousand passionate Blues supporters expected to fill the stadium, the atmosphere will be electric and could potentially rattle the Swans.

Considering the personnel factors, home ground advantage, and the Blues’ scintillating form, it’s reasonable to expect Carlton to secure a comfortable victory in this Elimination Final. The bookmakers’ -12.5 handicap on Carlton seems like a tempting bet for those looking to capitalize on what appears to be a favorable matchup.