The AFL is set to boost security measures for Adelaide's qualifying final against Collingwood in the wake of Izak Rankine's suspension for a homophobic slur.
In a juicy, coincidental outcome from this year's AFL ladder positions, minor premiers Adelaide will host the fourth-placed Pies just three weeks after an explosive round 23 clash the Crows won by three points.
That match will forever be remembered for Rankine's use of a homophobic slur, which led to a week-long saga before the star forward was banned for four matches.
The Crows argued Rankine himself had been sledged by Dan Houston during the game, while it was reported some Collingwood players stated this wasn't the first time Rankine had used a term of that nature in clashes against them.
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Their match-up kicks off the finals series on Thursday, September 4.
Considering the history between the teams at what will be a rocking Adelaide Oval, the AFL is taking every precaution, according to Fox Footy's Jon Ralph.
“This qualifying final is a powder keg waiting to explode,” he told On the Couch. “My understanding is there will be a major boost of security at Adelaide Oval.
"Adelaide Oval is refusing to comment on its security provisions, the AFL says it will take all precautions necessary.
“This game has the potential to go absolutely feral, with thousands of Collingwood fans going across for that game, and the authorities are well aware of it.”
Collingwood claimed the first match between the teams by 10 points back in round 10 at the MCG before Adelaide squared the ledger in round 23.
What is sure to be a fiercely contested qualifying final gets underway at 7.40pm AEST on September 4.