Die-hard Sydney Swans and Western Bulldog fans are gearing up for what is set to be a thriller grand final on Saturday.
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Southern Cross weatherman and Swans fanatic Peter Murphy said the Bulldogs have had a fairy tale season, but making the grand final will be their greatest achievement when the final siren sounds.
”The Swans achievement for the year will be winning the grand final,” he said.
“The Swans had to spend 72 years between flags when they won in 2005, the Bulldogs have only been out in the wilderness 62 years so they have a bit more time yet.”
Mr Murphy’s love for the Swans led him to purchase a tailored made red and white suit to wear to special club occasions.
Born and bred Bulldogs supporter Tim Haab recalled the first time he met the team mascot.
“The first bulldog I ever met I was about six-years-old and it was the mascot, I couldn’t even believe it was a dog and ever since that day I wanted one,” he said.
Red, white and blue runs through the family veins, with Mr Haab and his daughter Brooke purchasing bulldogs as family pets.
“All of our bulldogs have been named after Western Bulldogs or Footscray players, we have always been mad Bulldog supporters,” Mr Haab said.
The Haab’s plan to close their shop, Haab Designer Jewellers, early so they can nervously watch the game at home on the big screen.
“In my lifetime I have never been in this situation having Footscray or the Western Bulldogs in the grand final,” Mr Haab said.
As festivities are being organised across the state Tasmania Police is encouraging footy fans to “do the right thing” if they plan to have a few drinks while watching the AFL grand final on Saturday.
Acting Sergeant Ann Edge said they want everyone to have a good time but that doesn’t mean drink driving and putting others at risk.
“Anyone heading out to the entertainment precincts should be aware that we won’t tolerate antisocial, drunk and unruly behaviour that ruins a good time for everyone else,” she said.
Extra police officers will be patrolling to help tackle drink driving and antisocial behaviour in the CBD.
Acting Sergeant Edge urged people to plan ahead and arrange a designated driver or oganise a taxi.