'Pick the best side you possibly can': Malthouse's call on Stevie J

Three-time premiership winning coach Mick Malthouse has declared he would not pick Steve Johnson as debate rages whether Greater Western Sydney should retain the veteran forward for Thursday night's qualifying final against Adelaide.

Sloane has appendix taken out, in doubt for final

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Adelaide have suffered a massive blow on the eve of the finals with star midfielder Rory Sloane in serious doubt to take on Greater Western Sydney.

Swans' charge to the flag a box-office hit

The "Buddy effect" and Sydney's rags to riches tilt at the flag are proving a box office hit with the Swans faithful flocking to the club in numbers rivalling the Tony Lockett era.

Sloane booked in for appendix surgery, in doubt for final

Star Adelaide midfielder Rory Sloane is in doubt for next week's qualifying final against Greater Western Sydney after being admitted to hospital for surgery on his appendix.

Sheedy's word of warning to Giants doubters

Legendary coach Kevin Sheedy has warned sceptics not to write off Greater Western Sydney for the premiership.

Swans big man to make finals pitch in NEAFL

Sydney ruckman Sam Naismith is playing for his finals future this weekend as the Swans look to lock in the remaining piece of their September puzzle.

Swans expect Tippett to be fit for must-win final

Sydney is confident Kurt Tippett will be fit for the Swans' first final after re-injuring his troublesome ankle against Carlton.

Stevie J's career hanging by thread after poor night against Cats

Steve Johnson's vast September experience is shaping as the sole card he has left to avoid the axe for the start of Greater Western Sydney's finals campaign.

Finals draw in a nutshell for Swans, GWS Giants

Who Sydney and Greater Western Sydney could face on the road to the grand final.