AFL Sunday: Late Suns exit shakes lineup ahead of Giants showdown; Saints-Blues wildcard battle takes center stage

The final day of Round 22 in the

The final day of Round 22 in the AFL season brings a double dose of drama, starting with a significant reshuffle for the Gold Coast Suns. A late withdrawal has thrown their preparation into disarray just hours before their crucial encounter with the Greater Western Sydney Giants, forcing the coaching staff to recalibrate their plans on the fly.

While the Suns grapple with that unexpected hurdle, the afternoon's main event pits St Kilda against Carlton in a contest that carries enormous weight for the wildcard race. Both sides enter the match knowing a victory is non-negotiable, with the loser facing a steep climb to keep their finals hopes alive in the crowded middle of the ladder.

The Expansion Cup rivalry adds an extra layer of spice to the Giants-Suns fixture, but today the focus is on resilience. Gold Coast's ability to adapt without a key contributor will be tested against a GWS side that has shown flashes of brilliance but struggled for consistency throughout the season.

Meanwhile, the Saints and Blues have traded momentum

Meanwhile, the Saints and Blues have traded momentum in recent weeks, with each club displaying flashes of the form that made them playoff contenders earlier in the year. Their head-to-head record is tight, and today's clash promises to be a grind, with midfield dominance and forward efficiency likely to decide the outcome.

As the afternoon unfolds, fans can expect high stakes, tactical adjustments, and the kind of unpredictability that defines this stage of the season. Both matches carry significant implications, and the teams that handle pressure best will emerge with the upper hand heading into the final stretch.

Stay tuned for live updates, team news, and key moments as the AFL Sunday action gets underway.