Footscray Bulldogs and Southport Sharks Set for VFL Grand Final Clash
The stage is set for one of the biggest matchups of the 2025 Smithy’s VFL season, as the Footscray Bulldogs and the Southport Sharks prepare to battle it out in the Grand Final at IKON Park this Sunday, September 21, from 2:15pm AEST. Fans can expect a high-energy contest between two sides who have taken very different paths but are united by one goal—lifting the premiership cup.
For Footscray, this game represents both momentum and history. The Bulldogs enter the decider riding an incredible 13-game winning streak, finishing on top of the ladder with a 15-3 record before powering through finals. Their qualifying final saw Frankston brushed aside by 80 points, and the preliminary final produced a 31-point victory over Box Hill. It’s their first appearance in the VFL Grand Final since 2016, when the Bulldogs defeated the Casey Demons to claim their second flag in just three seasons. Now, nearly a decade later, another opportunity is within reach. With key inclusions like experienced defender Taylor Duryea returning, and midfield star Adam Treloar providing steady leadership, the Bulldogs’ lineup looks as dangerous as ever.
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Southport, meanwhile, comes into this decider with a point to prove. The Sharks have been so close in recent years, reaching the Grand Final in 2022 and 2023 but falling short on both occasions. Last year they were edged out by Werribee by just six points, a heartbreaking defeat that still lingers. This season, they finished third with a 13-4-1 record, but their finals campaign has been nothing short of impressive. A strong win against Box Hill in the qualifying final was followed by a crushing 88-point demolition of Frankston in the prelim, showing their power across all lines. The Sharks are chasing their first-ever VFL premiership, and there is a sense that this could be their year to finally break through.
Head-to-head history leans Southport’s way, with three wins from their three meetings against Footscray. Their most recent clash came in last year’s preliminary final, where the Sharks pulled off a gritty 10-point upset at Mission Whitten Oval. Adding further intrigue is the venue—this will be the first time these sides face off at IKON Park.
Plenty of eyes will also be on individual honors. The Norm Goss Medal will once again be awarded to the best player on the ground, with former Bulldog Lin Jong set to present it. If Footscray wins, club legend Tony Liberatore will hand over the premiership cup, while Sharks president Clayton Glenister will do so if Southport prevails. In a historic milestone, goal umpire Georgie Henderson will become the first woman to officiate a VFL Grand Final.
With live coverage available on the Seven Network, 7plus, AFL.com.au, and the AFL Live Official App, fans nationwide will be able to tune in. For those heading to the ground, tickets remain available, with kids under 15 gaining free entry.
All signs point to a Grand Final that promises grit, drama, and plenty of passion. For the Bulldogs, it’s about cementing dominance. For the Sharks, it’s about redemption and history. On Sunday afternoon, one team’s dream will finally be realized.
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