AFL Round 14 2026: Key Match Previews
North Melbourne travel to Perth to face West Coast at Optus Stadium after a 124‑point loss to Fremantle. The Kangaroos sit 14th (5‑7) and aim to recover, with captain Nick Larkey under pressure to find form. West Coast, 16th (4‑9), look to build on a recent six‑point defeat to Port Adelaide and will debut 23‑year‑old draftee Marcus Herbert. The contest will hinge on clearing dominance and midfield pressure.
Meanwhile, Geelong host Gold Coast at GMHBA Stadium in a clash that could decide the final top‑eight spots. Geelong sit level with the Suns for a finals berth; a win would cement the Cats' position while a loss could see Gold Coast overtake them on percentage. Cats captain Jack Bowes is a game‑time decision with a soft‑tissue injury, prompting coach Chris Scott to consider shifting veteran Patrick Dangerfield into a larger midfield role. Gold Coast aim to break a decade‑long losing streak at the venue, relying on improved transition play led by Wil Powell. Both matches are pivotal for ladder positioning and postseason hopes in the 2026 AFL season.