AFL finals 2018 week 2 ultimate guide, fixture, matchups, kick off times
With the first week of thrilling AFL Finals action in the book, the race for the 2018 premier is down to just six teams.
Week one saw Richmond, Melbourne, the GWS Giants and West Coast Eagles prevailing with the seasons ending for two experienced finals mainstays in the Sydney Swans and Geelong.
Due to their wins in the respective qualifying finals, Richmond and West Coast will enjoy a week off before hosting home preliminary finals in a fortnight.
However, for four other teams, the battle commences just six days from now.
Week 2 finals fixtures
Friday, September 14
First semi-final: Hawthorn vs Melbourne, MCG, 7,50pm AEST
Saturday, September 15
Second semi-final: Collingwood vs GWS Giants, MCG, 7.25pm AEST
Last Time They Met
Hawthorn vs Melbourne
Round 4, 2018 - Hawthorn 18. 7. (115) def. Melbourne 6. 12. (48), MCG
The Demons were yet to morph into the powerhouse offensive team they have become in September as the Hawks humiliated them in front of 41,973 at the MCG. Despite injuries to Cyril Rioli, James Frawley and Paul Puopolo, the Hawks kept the Demons goalless for two quarters and to just one goal after quarter-time.
For the Hawks, the win came while midfield dynamo Tom Mitchell endured one of his rare lean days of the 2018 season, being held to just 24 disposals for the game. Melbourne was led by Clayton Oliver who amassed 28 touches and 11 tackles, while Max Gawn dominated the ruck with 66 hitouts.
AAP
Collingwood vs GWS Giants
Round 2, 2018 - Collingwood 12. 7. (79) def. by GWS Giants 15. 5. (95), MCG
The Giants notched up their second ever win at the MCG in a seesawing win over the Magpies. Despite leading at every change, there were multiple lead changes throughout the day as the Giants eventually prevailed.
However, the game came at a major cost for both sides as Collingwood forward Tim Broomhead and Giants midfielder Tom Scully were both stretchered from the ground.
AAP
Looking forward - Week 3 fixtures and kick off times
Friday, September 21
First preliminary final: Richmond vs winner of Collingwood-GWS Giants, MCG, 7.50pm AEST
Saturday, September 22
Second preliminary final: West Coast Eagles vs winner of Hawthorn-Melbourne, Optus Stadium, time tbc
