NRL finals LIVE updates: Roosters face Sharks in sudden-death showdown

Hawthorn and Brisbane Eagles are set to face off in the AFL preliminaries final at the MCG, in a bid to claim spots in next week's grand final. The Hawks have rested for a week following their upset victory over the Dockers in the qualifying final, whereas the Lions arrived after a dominant win against the Crows in the previous weekend's home semifinal.

Both teams have opted to start the match with their original lineups. Fremantle's recent impressive comeback against Sydney, erasing a 28-point deficit, holds significance for these teams as they vie for the top spot. Tom Wildie, from ABC Sport, discusses the implications of the Dockers' and Swans' performance on the outcome. Jack Gunston, a veteran forward for Hawthorn, showcases his experience with an early kick at goal.

His impact on the game is uncertain, given his extensive experience in preliminaries. The MCG underwent an impressive transformation despite hosting an NFL match just a week ago, as the groundstaff managed to restore it to pristine condition for the AFL clash. With over 100,000 spectators attending the NFL game last weekend, the expected turnout is anticipated to mirror that figure.