The match-up between great mates Franklin and Gibson could go a long way to deciding Saturday's decider. Franklin is in sublime form and his peerless athleticism and nous around goals have been on display during his first season in the Harbour City. Gibson is the ideal opponent for the Swans' superstar, having originally been traded to the Hawks in 2010 for the quality lock-down jobs he had performed on Franklin in his North Melbourne days. Gibson has the mobility to match Franklin, although having to be so accountable will take away from his greatest asset – leaving his opponent to influence other contests. How will Buddy respond to playing his former teammate in such a big game? In two contests this season he has got plenty of the ball, but finished with just 2.7 and 3.5. Franklin is likely to get his share again on Saturday, but how hard Gibson makes him work and where the shots at goal come from could be telling by the final siren.
Lance Franklin
GAMES: 203
GOALS: 655
SEASON TO DATE: After a slow start to his life as a Swan, Buddy has returned to arguably his best form since 2008, winning the Coleman Medal, All Australian selection and finishing equal second in the Brownlow Medal.
FINALS TO DATE: With two remarkable final quarter-goals against Fremantle in the first week of the finals, Franklin was arguably the difference in that game, and he backed it up with a supreme 23-disposal, five-goal game against the Kangaroos at the weekend. He's is in white-hot form and peaking at the right time.
WEAPON: Franklin's agility for someone his size is unmatched. He has lightning speed on the lead and can turn his opponent inside out.
WEAKNESS: Despite improving in this area this season, his contested marking and general strength in pack situations is questionable.
Josh Gibson
GAMES: 164
GOALS: 2
SEASON TO DATE: Missed eight weeks mid-season with a pectoral injury, but either side of that has had another superb year. Even with Brian Lake out for extended periods, Gibson has marshalled the Hawks backline brilliantly.
FINALS TO DATE: A solid series so far, with neither the Cats or Power big men getting off the leash. Gibson has been held accountable by his opponent and got less of the ball (22 and 13 touches respectively) than during the season.
WEAPON: He's quick and can match almost anyone on the lead. Gibson reads the play superbly and is at his best when zoning off his man to influence other contests.
WEAKNESS: Doesn't get isolated too often, but can be found wanting for strength in one-on-one contests.
