The release of the AFL fixture for the upcoming season has sparked plenty of debate, as clubs assess how their schedules might impact their chances of success. For some teams, the fixture is a major boost in their quest for a premiership, while for others, it’s a challenge that could derail their ambitions. With the competition’s intensity rising every season, the right fixture can be the difference between a flag tilt and a missed finals opportunity.
Winners: Teams Set for a Flag Tilt
The biggest winners from the 2024 fixture are the teams with a well-balanced schedule that includes key matchups at home and an evenly distributed spread of tough and manageable opponents. Teams like Geelong, Collingwood, and Richmond have been handed fixtures that provide an excellent opportunity to rack up early wins, thanks to a favorable mix of home games and clashes against lower-ranked sides.
Collingwood, the 2023 premiers, have a fixture that allows them to build momentum after a stellar 2023 season. Their early-season matchups with teams that are rebuilding or coming off injury-plagued seasons could give them the chance to set the pace and solidify their place at the top. Meanwhile, Geelong and Richmond, both aiming to return to finals contention, also benefit from a fixture that should help them find consistency as they target another premiership run.
Losers: Teams Facing Tough Runs
On the flip side, some clubs have been handed fixtures that make the path to a flag far more challenging. North Melbourne and West Coast, two teams in the midst of rebuilding, face daunting stretches against top-tier sides. These tough matchups could see them struggle to find form, making it harder to climb the ladder and break into the finals.
Similarly, Adelaide and GWS Giants will face a particularly difficult patch in the middle of the season, where they’re scheduled to meet several premiership contenders in quick succession. These tough periods could severely impact their finals chances, especially if they are unable to secure crucial wins during the early stages of the year.
Looking Ahead
The fixture ranking has undeniably altered the landscape for several teams, with some clubs receiving a clear advantage in their race for the premiership, while others face a challenging uphill battle. With the season fast approaching, the fixture will play a pivotal role in shaping the fortunes of every AFL team. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how the balance of luck and skill unfolds as the competition heats up.
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