Bragging rights are on the line and all the trash talk we've dished out throughout the year, it’s now time to “walk the walk” as they say. Bring on the finals!
Along with finals brings the return of some key names in Lance Franklin and Sam Mitchell returning to their respective sides – a relief for many as trade numbers dwindle at this crucial stage of the season.
Taking a look at last week’s top scorers, Nat Fyfe dragged his side across the line in a standout performance that earnt him 171 SC points, Lenny Hayes (155) showed he still has the class to match it at this level, a couple of Cats in Joel Selwood (148) and Mitch Duncan (145) had big tons as did Dockers Michael Barlow (144) and Lachie Neale (143).
Here are my captaincy selections for this week!
Dayne Beams
Beams has been simply brilliant over the last fortnight, producing scores of 141 and 159! He has been a superb pick-up in SuperCoach land this year averaging 118, while in 2012 at his very best form he scored 154, 123 and 128 against the Eagles.
Joel Selwood
Selwood is quickly firming as a Brownlow favourite as he locks horns with the man he may well trump in this year’s Brownlow in controversial circumstances. He has landed three consecutive scores of 140+ and with Ross Lyon already flagging Ryan Crowley will go to Steve Johnson; Selwood is a perfect skipper option this week.
Nat Fyfe
A mark of a true champion is the ability to haul your side over the line single-handedly and that’s exactly what Nathan Fyfe did last week. The Dockers stole the four points from the Blues and without Fyfe’s presence that would not have been the case. Expect him to again perform is Saturday nights blockbuster.
Tom Liberatore
It has been a quieter month by his lofty standards, but I expect Libba to have a big match on Sunday. As the Saints fans pay tribute to an outstanding and respected midfielder in Lenny Hayes, we will continue to watch the rise of perhaps the best inside midfielder of the next decade.
Scott Pendlebury
Past 5 vs West Coast – 153, 114, 125, 155, 140
Huge numbers from Pendlebury against the Eagles in recent times. He has a five-game average of 137 and was best on ground in their clash earlier this year. Select with confidence.