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The 2021 AFL Grand Final will have a twilight starting time, the league confirmed on Tuesday.
The season decider will start at 5:15 PM AWST on Saturday September 25th, meaning the second half is set to be played under lights at Optus Stadium in Perth after the AFL confirmed the match would be moved West due to Victoria's ongoing coronavirus crisis.
AFL Executive General Manager Clubs and Broadcasting Travis Auld said the league was pleased to be able to confirm the start time for the 2021 Toyota AFL Grand Final.
“The 5:15pm AWST / 7:15pm AEST start time aims to provide fans at the game with the ultimate Grand Final experience by maximising the stadium’s offering while taking into consideration the broadcast audience across the country,” Mr Auld said.
“The AFL, together with the Seven Network, remain cognisant of finishing the match at a suitable time for younger footy fans and, as a result, landed on a timeslot that is earlier than the usual start time for night matches during the season and last year’s Grand Final.
“Historically, a really special part of Grand Final day is the build-up and anticipation, and we want to ensure we can share the excitement and atmosphere with the millions watching across the nation and around the world.”
The first of the preliminary finals will be played at Optus Stadium on Friday 10th September between Melbourne and Geelong, before Port Adelaide hosts Western Bulldogs on Saturday evening.
IMAGE: The West Australian