Anna Harrington

Coach Dean Cox felt "mixed emotions" after embattled and understrength Sydney beat North Melbourne by 53 points in the Swans' first game since the sexual assault allegations that have rocked the AFL club.

Skipper Callum Mills and star midfielder Errol Gulden were in tears on the final siren, the emotions of the week spilling over as the crowd showed its vocal support for the club.

Sydney will prepare for their AFL finals campaign while bracing for more fall-out from the sexual assault allegations that have rocked the club.

Scheduled to play lower-ranked Collingwood at the MCG off a shorter break, the Western Bulldogs would be entitled to complain about the wildcard hand they have been dealt.

Minor premiers Fremantle will start their bid for a maiden AFL flag with a Thursday night qualifying final against Hawthorn at Optus Stadium.

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Minor premiers Fremantle have dominated the extended All-Australian squad while Melbourne champion Max Gawn is poised to become the first nine-time selection.

New Essendon coach Mark McVeigh says it's tough to leave embattled Sydney in a "really difficult moment", but he always planned to move on immediately if he got the Bombers job.

Max Gawn is the best ruckman of all time and simply curbing his influence is all Marc Pittonet needs do to help keep Carlton's AFL fairytale alive.

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