AFL Chief Executive Andrew Dillon has addressed the controversy surrounding the scheduling of finals, following reports that some clubs, particularly the Western Bulldogs, were unhappy with the arrangements. The Bulldogs expressed disappointment that their elimination final was scheduled on the same evening as their AFLW team’s first game at the newly renovated Mission Whitten Oval. This situation has put Bulldogs fans in a difficult position, forcing them to choose between attending the men’s elimination final or supporting the women’s team at their historic homecoming.
Dillon, however, defended the scheduling decisions during an appearance on AFL360, stating that no club should be dissatisfied with being in the finals. He praised the AFL’s fixturing team for their efforts in balancing various factors such as attendance, broadcast requirements, rest days, and the flow of the finals series. According to Dillon, clubs do have input, but ultimately, they are pleased to be participating in the finals.
He highlighted the significance of the upcoming elimination final between the Bulldogs and Hawthorn, both of whom are among the most in-form teams entering the finals. Dillon suggested that the high turnout expected at the MCG for this match would justify the scheduling choice. Additionally, when questioned about why the Sydney Derby, involving minor premiers Sydney, wasn’t given a prime Friday night slot, Dillon pointed out that Sydney would benefit from having their final on Saturday, allowing for a potential advantage in the later stages of the finals.
