AFL wildcard finals 2026, scores, results, odds, stats and start time from the MCG

Bulldogs skipper Marcus Bontempelli has offered an explanation for why Ryan Gardner hasn’t played in the first half, despite being fit.

“He will probably get some minutes in the second half. He’ll definitely get some minutes in a relief role in the ruck, maybe if we want to keep Rory Lobb forward,” Bontempelli told Kayo Sports at half-time.

“He’ll be ready to go once he gets his chance.”

Some fans have joked on social media that Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge still thinks the AFL has a sub rule, while others reckon he’s just forgotten he picked Gardner in the side in the first place.