So much for being too old and too slow. Here’s how the Pies can make the top four

July 27, 2026 — 3:30pm

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With four rounds remaining in the 2026 AFL home-and-away season, the sprint to September is officially on.

Fremantle have all but locked in top spot, but there is much to keep supporters interested in the chasing pack.

The Swans, Hawks and Lions are battling for second spot, while the remaining finals berths are open.

The Blues are back in the hunt, as are the Saints. The Magpies are on a roll. Can the Western Bulldogs rise?

The introduction of the wildcard round – extending the number of clubs who can make finals from eight to 10 – has ensured more teams remain in the race at this point of the campaign.

We take a look at what awaits for your team. The best-case and worst-case scenarios are projections only.

What we say: The Dockers, led brilliantly by Murphy Reid, are almost a lock to finish on top of the ladder, giving themselves two home finals. But their final month will be challenging, ensuring they head into September battle-hardened. The Bulldogs are up next and, as we have said before, keep an eye on the round-24 clash against the Blues.

Best-case finish: First. Worst-case finish: First.

What we say: The Swans rebounded well against the Giants (their seventh win in their past eight derbies), and do not face what we consider another major test before September. That’s a pity because earlier defeats to the Brisbane Lions, Fremantle and Adelaide prompted questions about their premiership aspirations. On form, they should win their final four games, and secure second spot.Best-case finish: Second. Worst-case finish: Fourth.

What we say: We didn’t learn anything about the Hawks this weekend; their thumping of Essendon was not a surprise. We’ll back them to take care of North Melbourne, but then come two serious tests – a trip to Brisbane (hopefully, with Mitch Lewis back), and a follow-up clash against Collingwood. If the Swans stumble, the Hawks are ready to pounce.Best-case finish:........

© Brisbane Times