Geelong winger Max Holmes will miss out on the 2022 AFL Grand Final after failing a fitness test, with coach Chris Scott pulling him from the side.
Holmes hurt his hamstring in the preliminary final against Brisbane last week and was subbed from the game, as the Cats brought in Mark O'Connor as the 23rd man.
There was hope in the air for the youngster throughout the week, but unfortunately wasn't able to do what was required in order to get the nod.
Holmes was on lighter duties throughout the week and struggled to get through match simulation, with the Geelong coaching panel deciding against the risk.
O'Connor takes his place in the starting 22 for Scott and the Cats, with Brandan Parfitt named as the medical sub.
Chris Scott confirms Brandan Parfitt is in for Max Holmes and will be the sub.
— 7AFL (@7AFL) September 24, 2022
Mark O'Connor named on the bench. pic.twitter.com/aSDU1BCq5J
Holmes has been a revelation in 2022 for Geelong, playing 18 games and cementing his spot in the senior side.
The 20-year-old is pivotal on the wing, using his speed and dare to break open the game, a style that the Cats have implemented into their game this season.
Holmes was also the matchwinner in the first final against Collingwood, with Geelong holding off the Pies by six points which was sealed by the gut runner.
O'Connor finally gets his chance as a starter, given he has come on as the sub in the first two finals.
The Irishman has been a crucial piece of the puzzle for Scott and has the ability to play on the wing as well as a run-with role.
O'Connor's versatility is the main reason why he got the nod over Parfitt and Sam Menegola, with the former still lining up on the biggest day of the year.
Parfitt was dropped for the finals, despite showing strong form in the last three weeks of the season and is a handy inclusion for Geelong if he is activated.
The 24-year-old has an uncanny ability to find himself in the right spots and could be a difference maker if he enters the game.
With the heartbreak story of Holmes a front page headline before the game, questions arise as to whether or not the youngster should be awarded with a premiership medal.
Traditionally, only players who don the colours on the day are awarded with the silverware, with plenty of hard luck stories across the game.
For the Swans, it was Logan McDonald - who was dropped for Hayden McLean - and Josh Kennedy who missed out on an opportunity for greatness.
Kennedy believes that players shouldn't miss out on a medal if they don't play in the grand final, as there is a lot more leading up to the last Saturday in September.
