PUNTING SPECTATOR: The big one

So it's come down to this. The two teams that have dominated the AFL all season have made it to the last Saturday in September. And thank God for that. In what has been a largely forgettable finals series, where the favourites have had their games won well before three-quarter-time, we are faced with the game that we have wished for all season.

The question is: can the young Hawks, with their explosive forward line and talented midfield, knock over a team that has only been beaten once this year? There are so many of the stars of the AFL on display. Ablett, Bartell, Johnson, Chapman and Corey for Geelong. Franklin, Roughead, Mitchell, Bateman and Hodge for the Hawks. This contest is a mouth-watering prospect.

There is so much to think about for a punting perspective. Will I back the Cats at the line? Can the Hawks win at the odds? Maybe the safe way is the Hawks at the line?

I have decided on the coward's way out. I am not proud of it, but I will stick to it. I am not having a bet. Yes, you heard it. I am staying out of the grand final. I am going to sit back and enjoy what should be an outstanding game of footy.

You just don't get to enjoy a game of footy as much when there is money involved. You tend to barrack, criticise umpires and players for the slightest of errors and curse when the other team's exquisite skills are on display. So I am staying out. Not having a bet. I'm letting them go around naked.

Are you with me?

Geelong are $1.45. The extraordinary thing about that is that after Round 10, Geelong were $1.40. In the 15 weeks since, Geelong have not been beaten but have drifted slightly in the betting!!! And still, I am not going to have a bet.

By the way, for the record I reckon Geelong are morals at $1.45 and will make the line of – 15 ½ easily.

There are now four sides battling it out for NRL supremacy this year, and realistically any one of the four could take the title. Injuries and suspensions have played a major part in this year's finals series, and that has levelled the playing field up.

I do like the Warriors with the 8½ start on Saturday night. They have been so impressive the last two weeks without Wade McKinnon that I can't see any reason why they won't give Manly a run for their money. There has also been a question mark over Matt Orford in big games, and there are none bigger than this.

Take the start here and continue to enjoy what has been a wonderful NRL finals series.

But remember, whatever you do, be careful out there.