The Bombers were another club who – early in 2024 – were looking likely finalists. After 13 Rounds Essendon were second on the ladder and even after 18 Rounds, they were still top four. A form slump ...

After the disappointment of missing a berth in the 2023 Grand Final as a result of a one-point loss to eventual premiers Collingwood in the preliminary final, the Giants were looking to atone in 2024.