Now or never for AFL’s big 8

HANG ON…what are those ethereal, blissful strains of warm and fuzzy in the background? Of course, it’s the collective of both footy fans and clubs alike, praising one thing – thank god that’s over. For the clubs that didn’t quite do enough in 2011, its time to take a long shower, have a good hard look in the mirror and wonder if anyone else will get dressed up as Chewbacca for Mad Monday. For the teams that will play on in September…it all starts NOW.

With the final 8 long set, last weekend still dished up some pretty good action. The Cats absolutely destroyed the Pies, but Mick didn’t seem to interested in the result as he spent most of the game in his car singing along to the ‘Wicked’ soundtrack. Subsequently, Nathan Buckley was left holding the baby and it took him a quarter and a half to work out where the coach’s box was. Carlton and St Kilda was one of two games that had any bearing of consequence to the finals equation, and with a trip to the SCG on the cards for a loss, the Saints dug in and took away a victory, although it must be noted that the Blues had a hot dog eating comp at half time. Credit must go to Port Adelaide too, avoiding the spoon with a win over the Dees. Ironically, with the match being played at the Adelaide Oval, it’s taken a cricket ground to remind them how to play football.

So to the finals and the words ‘epic’ and ‘blockbuster’ spring to mind. Cats v Hawks kick things off with a bang on Friday followed by Pies v Eagles on Saturday arvo. Both these results have the same outcome – a week off and a home prelim for the victor, whilst for the loser, self doubt, trust issues and the heat of the spotlight for a cutthroat final the following week.

The other 2 finals should be rippers, as its ‘thanks for coming’ for the defeated. The Blues and Bombers clash should supply a six-month quota for the blood bank, while the Saints and Swans could set records for most intense, low scoring final ever. Bring it on!