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Derbies galore in AFL preseason fixture

Justin ChadwickAAP
Kangaroos' CEO Ben Amarfio says they are disappointed not to play in Tasmania but understands why.
Camera IconKangaroos' CEO Ben Amarfio says they are disappointed not to play in Tasmania but understands why.

The AFL has been forced to make more changes to its preseason fixtures, with all teams now set to stay in their home state.

Fremantle were due to take on Adelaide in Perth and West Coast were scheduled to take on Port Adelaide, also in WA.

But the Eagles and Dockers will now face off in a derby on Sunday, March 7 at Optus Stadium, while the Crows and Power will clash in Adelaide on the same day.

Gold Coast, who were due to take on Sydney in NSW, will now face off against Brisbane at Metricon Stadium on March 8.

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The Swans will face GWS, who were due to take on the Lions.

All games in Victoria will go ahead as scheduled.

The Game AFL 2024

But North's clash with Hawthorn that was slated for Tasmania will now be played in Melbourne at Arden Street Oval.

"Of course we are disappointed our Tasmanian members and fans won't get to see us play next week, but we are cognisant of the fact these decisions are being made in the interests of managing a very real risk, and ensuring the safety of the community, players and staff," Kangaroos chief executive Ben Amarfio said.

The fixture change means West Coast and Fremantle will face off twice in the space of eight days.

The arch-rivals will play in an unofficial practice match this Saturday, before fronting up for the official one on March 7.

2021 PRESEASON UPDATED FIXTURE:-

Thursday, March 4

Carlton vs St Kilda at Marvel Stadium

Friday, March 5

Collingwood vs Richmond at Marvel Stadium

Saturday, March 6

North Melbourne vs Hawthorn at Arden Street Oval

Geelong Cats vs Essendon at GMHBA Stadium

Sunday, March 7

GWS Giants vs Sydney Swans at Giants Stadium

Adelaide Crows vs Port Adelaide at Flinders University Stadium

West Coast Eagles vs Fremantle at Optus Stadium

Monday, March 8

Western Bulldogs vs Melbourne at Marvel Stadium

Gold Coast vs Brisbane Lions at Metricon Stadium.

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