The thread on BigFooty Forum is buzzing with excitement and anticipation for the AFL 2023 Grand Final between the Collingwood Magpies (Pies) and the Brisbane Lions (Lions). The match is scheduled for Saturday, September 30th, at 2:30 pm EST at the MCG.
Get in on the Grand Final Discussion.
AFL Grand Final 2023 Date and Time 30 Sept 2023, 2:30 pm
AFL Grand Final Date and Time Sat, 30 Sept 2023, 2:30 pm
Fan Sentiments
The atmosphere in the thread is electric, with fans from both sides expressing their hopes, fears, and expectations. While Lions supporters are optimistic, citing their team’s recent form, Pies fans are equally confident, pointing to their team’s historical performance at the MCG. One comment encapsulates the mood: “The two best teams have made the big dance. Hopefully, it’s a great game. Good luck to both clubs and their fans.”
Predictions and Polls
The thread features various polls and predictions, with opinions divided almost evenly between the two teams. Some believe the match will be a close contest, while others predict a more decisive victory. A notable point is that the poll results show a slight tilt towards the Lions, contradicting the perception that the Pies are the favorites.
Key Players and Strategies
Discussions around key players like Moore and DeGoey for the Pies and their impact on the game are frequent. Fans debate whether missing key players in previous matches skewed the outcomes and what that means for the Grand Final. Strategies like capitalizing on inside 50’s and maintaining efficiency are considered crucial. One fan notes, “Pies game simply built for September. No faith at all in that pie forward line to kick over 12 goals, shame as a high-scoring shootout would be epic.”
Controversies and Debates
The thread isn’t without its controversies. There’s a debate about whether the Lions’ victories over the Pies in the regular season will have any bearing on the Grand Final. Some argue that those wins need to be contextualized, as the Pies were missing key players. Another point of contention is the use of individual songs for players, with some fans finding it “embarrassing” and not in the spirit of the game.
Conclusion
Can there ever be a real conclusion before the big day? The thread is a microcosm of the larger fan sentiment surrounding the AFL 2023 Grand Final. While both sets of fans are cautiously optimistic, there’s an undercurrent of tension and excitement. The discussions, debates, and polls suggest that this Grand Final is too close to call, and could very well become an instant classic. As one fan aptly puts it, “I really don’t know which way this one will play out. Exciting times.”
And so, as the clock ticks down to the Grand Final, the only certainty is the uncertainty, making this one of the most anticipated AFL Grand Finals in recent memory.
