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Geelong v Carlton, Friday Night 7:40, Etihad Stadium
St. Kilda v West Coast, Saturday Afternoon 1:45pm, Etihad Stadium
Saturday’s clash with the Crows was incredibly taxing for the Saints, losing a few players to injury and out run by a better outfit. In some incredible twist of fate, the Eagles have had a horrific run with injury yet sit second on 5 – 2 with an incredible percentage. Perhaps the Saints can draw some inspiration and put an end to the Coasters magic start.
Eagles by 20.
Greater Western Sydney vs Adelaide, Saturday Afternoon 2:10pm, Spotless Stadium
Fourth versus fifth in a clash in which both teams have managed to surpass pre-season expectations. Perhaps soft draws for both, but at points have played some really solid football – namely the Crows defensive pressing and the Giants counter attack have been highlights. Should be a good watch.
Crows by 15.
Gold Coast vs Collingwood, Saturday Twilight 4:45pm, Metricon Stadium
The Suns third quarter was amongst the poorest football I’ve ever seen. To concede 12 goals in half an hour on a wet track is beyond despicable. The Pies should take advantage of their wobbly form and push to consolidate a top four spot two months into the season.
Pies by 41.
Hawthorn v Sydney, Saturday Night 7:20pm, MCG
Fremantle vs North Melbourne, Saturday Night 7:40pm, Domain Stadium
Realistically, it would be very North Melbourne for the Roos to get up on Saturday. The pattern of winning unlikely games against superior opposition goes hand in hand with their capitulations against middle of the road teams. All that said, the Dockers still should be favourites.
Dockers by 9.
Essendon vs Brisbane Lions, Sunday Afternoon 1:10pm, Etihad Stadium
Essendon are starting to lag after three long years of dealing with an off-season mess which is far from being resolved. The lethargic Bombers don’t look themselves and will need verve to knock off a resurgent Brisbane which has finally gained confidence. Alarms will start sounding if the Bombers drop this.
Dons by 7.
Melbourne vs Western Bulldogs, Sunday Afternoon 3:20pm, MCG
After three difficult weeks, the Dees need a respite. The Dogs aren’t the easybeats they are asking for, but they’re very gettable if they play their cards. Take the game on and who knows where it could lead them?
Dogs by 11.
Port Adelaide vs Richmond, Sunday Twilight 4:45pm, Adelaide Oval
With each losses, Port Adelaide’s chances of a top two home final begins. Their draw is very kind for a while yet, but they have to eradicate the slip ups of the last two weeks. This team is more than capable of achieving their ultimate goal, it’s just their application has wavered. Focus Port, the Tigers should be an easy kill.
Power by 27.