Sydney defeats Brisbane in qualifying final at Sydney Cricket Ground

Sydney defeated Brisbane by 53 points in their qualifying final at the Sydney Cricket Ground on September 5, 2026. Despite injury concerns during warm-ups, Tom Papley led the Sydney attack with five goals and four goal assists. Logan McDonald added six goals for the home side, while Errol Gulden recorded 34 disposals in front of a crowd of 37,261. The win comes as Sydney managed to overcome the absence of five players, including Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, and Nick Blakey. Brisbane remained within reach until the third quarter, when Sydney pulled away to secure the result. With the victory, Sydney advances in the finals series, while Brisbane faces further competition.

• 8:54 AMAFL — Backs against the wall, the Swans have the perfect player for such an occasion