The crucial cogs of AFL's Round 8: Which players need to be the difference makers?
There’s no disputing that Cam Guthrie will be important against Melbourne, given Patrick Dangerfield is set to miss due to injury.
Geelong coach Chris Scott has called the AFL’s long-term grand final deal with the MCG a travesty.
He has the backing of Sydney coach John Longmire, who said the Swans would love the premiership decider to be played at different venues.
Scott’s comments come as the Cats continue to talk to the AFL about potentially hosting a qualifying final at GMHBA Stadium should they finish first or second.
The Cats are two games clear at the top of the ladder with eight rounds left.
While Scott can see the league’s point of view about why Geelong might not be able to host a qualifying final, should they earn the right, he is much less conciliatory about the AFL’s grand final deal.
Last year, the AFL and MCG signed a deal that cements the grand final to that venue until 2057.
“I will say it once more, because it’s locked in for 40 years – I don’t think that’s right,” Scott told AFL360.
“Maybe that’s influenced by my playing days up in Brisbane, but we’re a truly national competition now.
“To have the grand final locked into the MCG is a travesty.”
Longmire said the Swans feel the same and noted this Saturday’s match against Essendon is the first time they play at the MCG this season.
“You won’t get any argument from me,” Longmire said in response to Scott.
“It’s a wonderful venue, but we’re pretty clear on what we believe.
“It would be great to take the biggest game in the land around the place.”
Longmire also said the Cats deserve a qualifying final in Geelong, should they finish in the top two.
Scott added that the Cats are well aware of the potential obstacles to that, given contracts that are in place.
“But we are working as a competition towards the idea that fairness should be the priority,” Scott said.
“At least in the first week of the finals, it’s generally accepted that the team that earns the home final should get it.
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