THIS year's flag race is a dead heat between reigning premiers Richmond and surprise packet West Coast, according to the fans.
The Eagles and Tigers have lost just three of 22 games between them and are each tipped for glory by 31 per cent of fans.
The Swans polled a distant third in the annual fan survey for AFL.com.au and the AFL Record, which was completed by over 48,000 supporters.
Despite their premiership credentials, the Eagles haven't surprised fans most this season. The Kangaroos' meteoric rise from 15th in 2017 to a top-four contender sees them earn the honour of the year's biggest bolter.
If fans' optimism is a guide, the AFL's equalisation policies are on track.
Though Tiger and Eagle fans are by far the most bullish about their 2018 hopes, a majority of fans at eight clubs think their side is a realistic flag chance this September.
Overall, the proportion of fans who think their team can win it all this year is down four points on 2017's result to 41 per cent. It's a somewhat surprising drop, considering this year's race has been as touted as even as any in recent history.
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However, 84 per cent believe their club is a realistic chance to win a premiership over the next three years, up two percentage points from 2017.
A meagre one win and one draw sees St Kilda earn fans' vote as the season's biggest disappointment. The Saints edge out the Bombers, who have struggled to a 4-7 record after being widely favoured for a finals berth this year.
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On the upside for the Dons, fans believe they are closer to a flag than the improving Lions, and a long way ahead of the struggling Saints and Blues.
There's little support for offering further help for cellar dwellers Carlton and Brisbane at the draft. Almost two thirds of fans say neither side should receive a priority draft selection.
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In a verdict that will come as little surprise, the team supporters most enjoy beating remains Collingwood, which garnered 20 per cent of the vote.
Hawthorn, Geelong and Essendon rounded out the 'love to hate' podium.
More 2018 Fan Survey results
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