20 Must See AFL Matches for 2021

10 must see AFL matches for 2021

It’s the start of a new year and in the Team Trips office that only means one thing – it’s time to check out the 2021 fixtures. We’re so excited to see the world of live sport ramping up again, and at the moment all eyes are on the AFL. Nothing quite compares to watching a match of AFL with the gang – whether it’s live or on the TV. While we’re just excited to get into it all, there are a few games that we’re particularly hanging out for. Here are our top 10 must see AFL matches for the year. 

Round 1 

Collingwood v Western Bulldogs, MCG, Friday 7.50pm AEDT

Given plenty of Collingwood fans were disappointed in the way Adam Treloar left the club, it’s going to be pretty interesting to see the former favourite taking on his old teammates in his new colours. It’ll be just as interesting to see how the Pies react to the new Bulldog too. The only thing we know for sure is that Treloar will be on a mission to make a statement. This match is also the first time we’ll see the number one draft pick Jamarra Ugle-Hagan run out onto the field with the Bulldogs. 

Round 2

Fremantle v Greater Western Sydney, Optus Stadium, Sunday 3.10pm AWST

The Fremantle Dockers paid a pretty big price to secure Jesse Hogan, be he was unable to deliver during his two seasons with the team. After shaking things up and jumping over to the Giants, all eyes will be on him to see if he can return to his 2018 top form. It could be a bitter-sweet moment for Fremantle to see him reach his true potential. 

Round 3

Geelong v Hawthorn, MCG, Monday 3.20pm AEST

It’s not the first time the Hawks have seen premiership heroes in opposition colours, but Isaac Smith’s move across to the bittersweet rivals of Geelong certainly takes the cake. The triple premiership star from 2013 – 2015 has moved at a time that means he could be in the running to wrap up with a fourth flag. It’s going to be a strange feeling for Hawks fans to see him in the hoops. 

Round 5 

Brisbane v Essendon, Gabba, Saturday 7.25pm AEST

When Joe Daniher departed Sydney at the end of 2019, everyone knew it was a move 12 months in the making. After making the switch to the Lions as a restricted free agent, Daniher’s skills will be on the test to see if they can pull him through for their first Grand Final win since 2004. 

Round 8 

Port Adelaide v Adelaide, Adelaide Oval, Time TBC

A clash between South Australia’s two clubs. What’s not to look forward to about that? Port spent the entire 2020 season at the top of the ladder and Adelaide didn’t score a win until round 15. While a clear underdog may sound likely, showdowns have traditional delivered the most unexpected results. 

Round 12 

Essendon v Richmond, MCG, Time TBC

2020’s Dreamtime match was a memorable occasion for plenty of reasons. It was not only launched with an epic pre-game ceremony, it was also another strike in Essendon’s 10-match losing streak against the Tigers. The teams are going head-to-head again in 2021, and Richmond fans will be crossing their fingers and toes that this is the start of a new chapter. 

Round 13 

St Kilda v Adelaide, Cazaly’s Stadium, Time TBC

The word on the street is that Brad Crouch’s move from the Crows to the Saints could launch the Victorian team to a new level this year. That’s if he can rediscover his best form in a new mid-field. This match will be the first time Brad takes on his brother Matt, and we all love a good splash of sibling rivalry. 

Round 16 

Geelong v Essendon, GMHBA Stadium, Time TBC

The last two Geelong hosted Essendon at its home ground was almost three decades ago – back in a time when Gary Ablett snr and Billy Brownless were the Cat’s forward combination. 28 years later, Tom Hawkins and Jeremy Cameron will pair up as big-time Victorian rivalries continue to slowly return to the Cattery. 

Round 17 

Greater Western Sydney v Gold Coast, Giants Stadium, Time TBC

The two newest teams to the AFL, in one big clash. While Gold Coast appears to be slowly building, some say Greater Western has peaked after four straight finals appearances that ended in 2020. This game will be the true test of where both teams are at, particularly after the Giants lost some key players during the off season. 

Round 21 

Geelong v Greater Western Sydney, GMHBA Stadium, Time TBC 

The once Coleman medallist, Jeremy Cameron has his eyes on a bounce back this year, after a tough year last year. The Giants were super keen to retain the dual All-Australian and even matched Geelong’s offer for him. Will he rise to the standard they’re looking for?