MORE: Preview: North Melbourne v Essendon | Preview: Hawthorn v Sydney
Geelong v Western Bulldogs, Saturday Afternoon 1:40pm, Simmonds Stadium
In another one of the increasingly frequent eight point games popping up, the Dogs head down the highway to face the Cats who’d be licking their wounds after a poor showing against North. The Cats have a tough draw on the run home, so the all-important win here is a must.
Cats by 4.
Gold Coast Suns v Greater Western Sydney, Saturday Afternoon 4:35pm, Metricon Stadium
In the battle of the newbies, the Suns would be confident despite falling apart last week in the final quarter, their ability to pinch wins against teams above them isn’t merely down to Ablett returning. They’re spreading and defending as a team, working five times as harder as they did in the early rounds of the season. The Giants are missing some players, but they should get it done.
Giants by 14.
Collingwood v West Coast, Saturday Twilight 4:45pm, Etihad Stadium
Huge game with big ramifications on the final four. The Pies are still in pursuit of the double chance, whilst the Eagles are caught between the advancing Hawks and Swans and bumpy Dockers. West Coast’s form on the road has been more than okay this year, although Collingwood will push them all the way.
Eagles by 5.
Fremantle v Carlton, Saturday Night 7:40pm, Domain Stadium
Not much here for neutrals, stick to the Hawks/Swans on the other channel. Freo to get it done in a canter whilst John Barker continues his prolonged work placement seeking promotion.
Dockers by 68.
Melbourne v Brisbane Lions, Sunday Afternoon 1:10pm, MCG
A game supporters of both sides are dreading, both knowing the ability that both teams have falling over against others in their weight division. Dees have a lot to prove after poor outings against West Coast and Essendon, expect them to bounce back.
Dees by 14.
Port Adelaide v Adelaide, Sunday Afternoon 3:20pm, Adelaide Oval
Expected to be an emotional and heart-tugging affair where both teams will honour the memory of late former Power assistant and Crows coach Phil Walsh. Game itself has nowhere near the importance of the spectacle and hard to see who handles the emotional waves better. May the people of Adelaide all have a chance to say goodbye.
Crows by 1.
St.Kilda v Richmond, Sunday Twilight 4:40pm, Etihad Stadium
Should be an okay game to close the round – the Saints are a team with nothing to lose and Richmond are hungry despite plugging along. The Tigers can almost touch a top four finish in their grasp. Keep concentrating and it’s theirs.
Tigers by 30.