Overview
- The Appeals Board ruled late on Thursday that the tribunal erred and downgraded Neale’s one‑game ban to a $10,000 fine, allowing the two‑time Brownlow medallist to play.
- Both clubs named unchanged 23s after the decision, with Brisbane keeping Neale in its side and Fremantle retaining Oscar McDonald while listing Brennan Cox as an emergency.
- Coaches said the selection stability preserves game plans for wet conditions, with forecasters predicting rain that makes Neale’s clean-ball, wet‑weather skills especially valuable.
- Fremantle’s final home training drew thousands on Wednesday and both teams have completed customary lead‑up events in Melbourne, including the parade and captain’s runs.
- The match pits Fremantle chasing its first premiership since 1995 against Brisbane aiming for a rare three‑peat, and the appeal outcome removes late uncertainty that could have altered team tactics.