GWS and Steve Johnson might travel to Simonds Stadium for prime time Round 23 fixture
THE AFL is yet to finalise its Round 23 fixture but former favourite son Steve Johnson looks a good chance to play under Friday night lights at Geelong in an emotional farewell.
AFL News
Don't miss out on the headlines from AFL News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
GEELONG’S clash against Greater Western Sydney Giants looms as the standout Friday night marquee match in Round 23.
And it could be an emotional farewell at Simonds Stadium for Giants’ veteran and three-time premiership Cat Steve Johnson.
SIGNED: GWS LOCKS AWAY YOUNG GUNS
ABLETT: WHAT SHOULD CATS GIVE SUNS?
The 33-year-old champion goal kicker is pushing to return from a knee injury at the midpoint of his 16th and final AFL season.
The league is yet to lock-in the slots for the floating Round 23 fixture but will look to reward the top sides with the Friday night spot to give them the longest break possible heading into finals.
The game would also hold enormous appeal for the broadcasters with Cats’ superstar teammates Patrick Dangerfield and Joel Selwood potentially locked in a thrilling finish for this year’s Brownlow Medal.
It would be only the fourth Friday night game in GWS’s history, providing the club with welcome exposure on the eve of its premiership tilt.
The Giants are one game clear on top of the ladder and remain favourite to win their first flag in only their sixth season in the competition.
Third-placed Geelong is also entrenched in the top four two wins ahead of fifth-placed Port Adelaide.
The Cats have four more games at Simonds Stadium in the run home including a Round 21 clash against Richmond.
SETBACK: GIANT GRIFFEN’S SEASON IN DOUBT
The Cats and the AFL denied that match would be moved to the MCG to cater for a bumper crowd.
“Geelong’s round 21 clash with Richmond will remain at Simonds Stadium despite recent media reports,” Geelong acting chief executive Justin Reeves said.
“The club and the AFL have not, and do not intend to discuss a venue move.”
Originally published as GWS and Steve Johnson might travel to Simonds Stadium for prime time Round 23 fixture
AFL Draft 2024: Full order, latest intel and the top prospects
Clubs are bracing for as many as 27 players to be taken in the first round of the national draft. Get the latest intel on who your club could pick plus full draft order as it stands.
Robbo’s Top 50: The four aces who could all be named No. 1
Footy’s biggest list is back with Mark Robinson naming his top 50 players of season 2024 and four superstars could barely be split for the top gong. Check out Robbo’s Top 50 and have your say.