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AFL Finals: Swans Face Uphill Battle Against Carlton

In the highly anticipated elimination final between Sydney and Carlton, the Swans will not only have to contend with Melbourne’s unpredictable weather but also their own dismal record at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The Swans have yet to secure a victory at this iconic venue throughout the season, raising concerns for coach John Longmire. These fears are compounded by the lingering trauma from last year’s devastating grand final defeat at the hands of Geelong. Ahead of Friday night’s clash, the Swans will need to find a way to overcome their mental and historical hurdles if they hope to advance to the semi-finals.

Blues Riding a Wave of Momentum

In contrast, Carlton enters the elimination final riding a wave of momentum. Having won nine consecutive games before their final round loss to Greater Western Sydney, the Blues have showcased their capabilities and have undoubtedly become one of the form teams of the competition. With the return of captain Patrick Cripps, as well as key players Sam Docherty and ruck Marc Pittonet, Carlton’s lineup is significantly strengthened for their first finals appearance since 2013. The Blues will be determined to capitalize on their current form and secure a long-awaited victory.

History Favors Carlton

Interestingly, the last time these two teams met in a finals series, it was Sydney who ended Carlton’s charge. However, only two players from Sydney’s current lineup remain from that victorious encounter, highlighting the significant turnover in personnel over the years. The two sides have not faced off at the MCG since their qualifying final clash in 1986, lending an air of excitement to this upcoming game. However, Sydney’s historical record against Carlton at the MCG does not bode well for their hopes of success. The Swans’ last victory over Carlton at this venue dates all the way back to 1918, creating ominous signs for their chances on Friday night.

Expert Predictions and the Influence of Weather

As pundits and fans eagerly anticipate the clash, many are questioning whether Sydney can overcome their historical deficiencies and adapt to Melbourne’s wild weather. The severe weather currently sweeping across Victoria adds an additional challenge to the match. While some argue that the unpredictable conditions might disrupt Carlton’s momentum and provide an opportunity for the Swans to level the playing field, others believe that the Blues’ skill and cohesion will still prevail.

Final Thoughts

The upcoming elimination final between Sydney and Carlton holds great significance for both teams. Sydney will need to break their MCG curse and overcome their psychological scars from last year’s grand final defeat. On the other hand, Carlton aims to capitalize on their impressive form and secure a long-sought-after victory in the finals. One thing is certain; both teams will be eager to leave their mark on this highly anticipated clash, and the outcome will have a lasting impact on their respective seasons.

Stay tuned for live updates on the Carlton vs Sydney match on Fox Footy (Channel 504) from 7 pm AEST.