All-time interest in the AFL Grand Final is through the roof! As with all great contests, fans are eagerly anticipating the announcement of the two teams that will square off in this unprecedented showdown. Now Lachie Neale has officially taken his place on the other side of the border. Due to Berry dislocating his left shoulder in the preliminary final, this was changed. Neale’s return provides the team with an emotional boost. He was recently lost for the season with a calf injury. His miraculous recovery, coming in at less than half the club’s 4-6 week recovery timeline, has been nothing short of astounding.
Jarrod Berry’s shoulder misfortune initially happened during a match a month before the preliminary final. At first, he hoped he might be fit to take part in the decider. It quickly became apparent that his injury would keep him out of action. Even beyond the numbers, his new coach Chris Fagan knows his skill set. With his commitment to the game clear through his extensive rehabilitation—24/7 treatment and hyperbaric chamber sessions—Neale made a compelling argument for selection.
Neale’s Remarkable Comeback
Lachie Neale’s return has been rewarding after a long comeback journey. He showed incredible resolve, checking off every box required for his selection. The coaching staff has liked what they’ve seen from his development and competitive fire during his recovery and rehab stage.
“Well done for getting through the session,” – Lachie Neale
Neale’s return just three days post-surgery has shocked supporters, but even more so coaches and players at the club. What he’s able to do on the field may end up being decisive in helping them earn a victory over their biggest rival.
Neale’s involvement in the match is hard to predict, as he could very well get the start or come off the bench. No matter where he ends up taking the field, his experience and versatility will only enhance the Reds’ lineup.
Adjustments to Team Dynamics
Although Neale is back, the team will still look different in part because of other injuries. Injury news Tom Stewart is out of the grand final with concussion. As a result, Rhys Stanley will take his place. This amendment suddenly places Mark Blicavs into an unfamiliar position. He can either become the seventh man back or play a defensive role as a lead half-forward to Harris Andrews.
Heath Shaw commented on Blicavs’ versatility and the challenge of fitting him into the team’s structure:
“I was joking about how he’s the only player I reckon in AFL history who walks into a team meeting every Thursday and doesn’t know where he’s gonna play,” – Heath Shaw.
These tactical changes highlight Seattle’s depth and their significant experience and organization coming into this important playoff game.
“That’s the flexibility that he has, which is so handy,” – Heath Shaw.
Even with all the injury business, the mood around the team is still one of encouragement. Josh Dunkley has officially been named in the lineup as expected, though still nursing an ankle concern. After some excellent performances during qualification, Bruce Reville has certainly carved out his place on the 23-man roster. He played as a sub in both the SF and PF wins.
Team Morale and Readiness
Reville expressed gratitude for being part of the grand final squad after facing injury setbacks last year:
He further reflected on the team’s camaraderie and excitement leading up to the match:
“Last year injuries cancelled me out of finals, but I’m just glad I’m here and part of it,” – Bruce Reville.
In the process, the team is building a powerful sense of community. This rip current bond would be extremely important as they head into the exciting grand final showdown looming.
“We’ll see what happens during the week (with selection), but I’m just relishing the moment and cherishing the week for what it is and doing it with a bunch of my best friends,” – Bruce Reville.
This sense of unity within the team could be crucial as they prepare for what promises to be an exhilarating grand final matchup.
