A second successive AFL season will culminate in a grand final under lights after the league and host broadcaster locked in an evening start time for this year’s decider in Perth.

The 25 September grand final – already confirmed for Optus Stadium – will begin at 5.15pm local time (7.15pm AEST).

It will be the second grand final in AFL/VFL history played outside Victoria and the second that finishes at night, following last year’s decider under lights at the Gabba in Brisbane.

“The start time aims to provide fans at the game with the ultimate grand final experience by maximising the stadium’s offering while taking into consideration the broadcast audience across the country,” AFL fixtures boss Travis Auld said.

“The AFL, together with the Seven Network, remain cognisant of finishing the match at a suitable time for younger footy fans and, as a result, landed on a timeslot that is earlier than the usual start time for night matches during the season and last year’s grand final.

“Historically, a really special part of grand final day is the build-up and anticipation, and we want to ensure we can share the excitement and atmosphere with the millions watching across the nation and around the world.”

Four teams remain in premiership contention, with Melbourne and Geelong to do battle in the first preliminary final at Optus Stadium on Friday night.

Port Adelaide will host the Western Bulldogs in the second preliminary final at Adelaide Oval on Saturday night.

For the first time, the grand final combatants will have a week off before meeting in the decider.

AAP

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