Top Eight Race Heats Up with Key Clashes
Gold Coast v Geelong (Thursday, May 16, 7pm ACST)
- Gold Coast aims to upset Geelong at TIO Stadium, where they've won their last five matches.
- Bailey Humphrey has shown promise for Gold Coast, while Tom Stewart seeks to bounce back for Geelong.
Sydney v Carlton (Friday, May 17, 7.40pm AEST)
- Sydney aims to solidify its top-of-the-ladder position against Carlton, who will attempt to break their hoodoo at the SCG.
- Dane Rampe will play a crucial role for Sydney in limiting the impact of Charlie Curnow and Harry McKay.
- Blake Acres will be a two-way force for Carlton, aiming to slow Sydney's transitions.
Collingwood v Kuwarna (Saturday, May 18, 1.45pm AEST)
- Collingwood seeks to build on their return to form against Kuwurna, who needs a victory to stay in finals contention.
- Steele Sidebottom has been a key factor in Collingwood's resurgence, while Jordan Dawson has rediscovered his scoring touch for Kuwarna.
Greater Western Sydney v Western Bulldogs (Saturday, May 18, 4.35pm AEST)
- GWS hopes to regain momentum at home against Western Bulldogs, who are aiming for their second consecutive win.
- Jesse Hogan has been a reliable scorer for GWS, while Taylor Duryea is a consistent performer for the Bulldogs.
Euro-Yroke v Walyalup (Saturday, May 18, 7.30pm AEST)
- Euro-Yroke battles Walyalup for a crucial win that could impact their playoff hopes.
- Rowan Marshall has been a standout for Euro-Yroke, while Michael Frederick aims to increase his goal tally for Walyalup.
Brisbane v Richmond (Saturday, May 18, 7.30pm AEST)
- Brisbane looks to stay in touch with the top eight against Richmond, who are mired in an injury crisis.
- Josh Dunkley has been a consistent force for Brisbane, while Daniel Rioli provides experience and polish for Richmond.
Essendon v North Melbourne (Sunday, May 19, 1.10pm AEST)
- Essendon aims to further boost its percentage against struggling North Melbourne.
- Todd Goldstein will reunite with his former side, while Zac Fisher continues to impress in defense for the Kangaroos.
Yartapuulti v Hawthorn (Sunday, May 19, 2.50pm ACST)
- Yartapuulti faces Hawthorn, who has turned its season around with three wins from its past four matches.
- Willie Rioli will be a threat in the forward line for Yartapuulti, while Nick Watson has emerged as a livewire for Hawthorn.
Waalitj Marawar v Narrm (Sunday, May 19, 4.20pm AWST)
- Waalitj Marawar seeks redemption on home ground against Narrm, who will aim to cement their top-four position.
- Jayden Hunt will bring pace and versatility to the Eagles, while Kysaiah Pickett will be out to make amends for a missed shot on goal last week for the Demons.