The final four have been revealed as the two dominant sides easily accounted for their lower ranked opponents and AFLPlayers.com.au have found those who played an underrated hand from the weekend’s play.
Melbourne: James Harmes
One of Melbourne’s most improved in 2018, James Harmes does the dirty work in the heart of the Demons’ midfield. His relentless attack on the contest was on full display against the Hawks, laying a game-high 11 tackles (four of those were inside 50) to go along with 19 disposals and four clearances as Melbourne qualified for their first preliminary final since 2000.
Hawthorn: Ricky Henderson
They had their opportunities, but at the end of the day, weren’t able to capitalise. Former Crow, Ricky Henderson, ran hard all night and was one of Hawthorn’s best, finishing with 21 disposals at 80 percent efficiency, nine marks and seven score involvements.
Collingwood: Brayden Maynard
It’s rare to see Toby Greene kept quiet in the big moments, but that’s exactly what happened on Saturday night, as Brayden Maynard went to work. He kept Greene to just nine disposals and not a single score, which went a long way to securing the victory.
GWS: Rory Lobb
It was by no means a big performance from the Giants big man, but Rory Lobb did some strong things for GWS, finishing with a goal, 12 disposals and 28 hit-outs in their 10-point loss.