AFL 2022: Finals presence of Sydney superstar Lance Franklin could be X-factor against Melbourne

Buddy Franklin averages more goals a game in finals than the regular season and that looms large for the Sydney Swans on Friday night.

He may be 35 but Sydney superstar Lance Franklin still looms as a finals wildcard.

Even Melbourne are on guard, knowing he’s more than capable of “kicking a bag” in Friday night’s qualifying final showdown at the MCG.

Franklin’s future beyond this season remains clouded, but his 50 goals from just 20 games in 2022 is proof positive of the impact the veteran forward can still have on games.

It’s an impact that has long been evident in finals too, with Franklin’s 72 goals form 25 finals, for first Hawthorn and then Sydney, the most of any player in the AFL.

Franklin didn’t play when the two teams clashed the only time this season in round 13, and nor did All-Australian defender Steven May who is likely to be tasked with stopping the future Hall of Famer.

It’s a match-up the Melbourne coaching staff, particularly defensive coach Troy Chaplin, is fully aware looms large over the qualifying final clash, regardless of Franklin’s age.

“It‘s clear to the competition that Buddy’s been a superstar for such a long time and to kick another 50 goals is just phenomenal,” Chaplin said on Thursday.

“We keep writing these players off just through looking at their age, but he hasn‘t played every game either, so he probably could’ve kicked 60 or 70 (this season).

Lance Franklin can still inspire the Swans. Picture: Phil Hillyard

“Those two generally line up against each other and there’s no doubt we’ve got to be really mindful of what Lance can do.

“He’s a pretty important player to that team, he’s got the capabilities of kicking a bag and he certainly likes the big games.”

Swans coach John Longmire said finals brought out the best in Franklin, and his decision to put off contract negotiations to the end of the year, amid speculation he could retire or move to another club, is a sign he’s invested in the team’s goals.

“We hope it’s a real advantage,” Longmire said on Wednesday

“He’s absolutely invested in the way we’re going and loves playing at this time of the year. It’s what he really loves doing. It’s great that he’ll be enjoying the moment at the MCG in front of a huge crowd.”

“He’s playing against a high-quality All Australian defender this week.

“Those two players didn’t play last time we met Melbourne, so they get an opportunity to go again this week, and I’m sure it’ll be a great contest.”

Regardless of the result, Franklin will get at least one more game in the red and white, with the winner of the clash booking passage to a preliminary final, and the loser to get a second chance next week.

Originally published as AFL 2022: Finals presence of Sydney superstar Lance Franklin could be X-factor against Melbourne