Week three of the AFL finals looms large, and only four teams are left with a chance at grand final glory.  The first match this weekend is between the Sydney Swans and the Collingwood Magpies, kicking off at ANZ Stadium at 7.50pm (EST).  While the Swans are slight favourites to take this one out, Collingwood can never be ruled out at this time of the season.

Grand final day at the MCG is just around the corner, and Collingwood will be keen to make it three outings in a row.  In contrast, the Swans haven’t been there since their narrow loss to the West Coast Eagles in 2006, and will be extra keen to show everyone they deserve to be included.  While the Swans had a rest last week after their week 1 defeat of the Crows, the Magpies may be tired after battling hard against the West Coast last Saturday night.

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The Magpies have a great record against the Swans, having won the past 11 games on the trot.  While this one statistic doesn’t guarantee a thing, it is sure to give the Pies some confidence leading into this encounter.  However, while Collingwood definitely know what is required to make a grand final, there are some fears they may be too busy catching their breath during the last quarter.

The other preliminary final this weekend is between the Hawthorn Hawks and the Adelaide Crows, taking place on Saturday at 5.15pm (EST).  The Hawks are big favourites to win this game, after a killer season and a week off to rest and prepare.  However, the Crows came back well against Fremantle last week and they will certainly not give up lightly.

Hawthorn have had a great season in 2012, and will be keen to finish it off with style.  They are outstanding both in attack and defence, and Adelaide will have a hard time breaking them down.  If the Crows really do fancy themselves in the grand final, they are going to have to try something a little bit different this weekend, and unless they can surprise the Hawks, this game could end up being a landslide.