Fremantle rallies to defeat Sydney in preliminary final

Fremantle overcame a 21-point deficit to defeat Sydney by 12 points in the preliminary final at the SCG on September 18, 2026. After dominating the final quarter with five unanswered goals, Fremantle seized their chance to advance to the Grand Final. Sydney coach Dean Cox expressed pride in his team's efforts but acknowledged the disappointment of missing a Grand Final opportunity, emphasizing the rarity of such chances. Veteran defender Dane Rampe showed emotion at the final siren, leaving unclear his future with the club as they await decisions about their roster, especially with Callum Mills recovering from ACL surgery.

• 2:36 PMAFL — Cox proud but hurting after 'missed opportunity', emotional veteran's future unclear