Adelaide vs St.Kilda, Saturday Afternoon 1:15pm, Adelaide Oval
Interesting test for the Saints who barnstormed home against the Dogs last Saturday afternoon. The Crows whilst seemingly returning to a groove still haven’t managed to put away teams – the Suns remaining threatening all game. Stay in it and who knows – it’s been that kind of season so far.
Crows by 19.
Carlton vs GWS, Saturday Afternoon 4:35pm. Etihad Stadium
Despite Malthouse gaining incredible media support and all Carlton’s woes are not tracing back to him, every poor performance will just increase the heat on the club’s decision on his future. The Giants were fantastic against the Hawks, and will be looking to add some consistency to their season.
Giants by 2.
Sydney Swans vs Geelong, Saturday Night 7:20pm, ANZ Stadium
Geelong’s outstanding performance against an in-form Collingwood assured many that on the day, they’re still a very capable and competitive team. It won’t be an easy game against the Swans, but they’re prone to their own lapses from time to time. Still, it might be the Swans that are likely too good on the night.
Swans by 29.
West Coast Eagles vs Gold Coast Suns, Saturday Night 7:40pm, Domain Stadium
Somehow, the Eagles despite losing half their talls in an injury crisis, sit 4 – 2 and second on the AFL ladder. It’s an insane prospect that they could go 5- 2 with a win over the still quite lacklustre Suns.
The standings perhaps aren’t telling the full story, but the Eagles pinching wins here and there will create quite an interesting plot twist come regular seasons end.
Eagles by 36.
Western Bulldogs vs Fremantle, Sunday Afternoon 1:10pm, Etihad Stadium
A-League Grand Final or not, I don’t think many people thought this would be an interesting or level contest when the fixtures were printed in October of last year. Sure, the Dogs came back to earth last week, but on their home patch they’re always an outside chance. It’s frenetic attack versus manic defence in probably the best ‘off-Broadway’ game of the round.
Dockers by 23.
Richmond vs Collingwood, Sunday Afternoon 3:20pm, MCG
Really one thing to keep in mind when watching this game – if it gets ugly, Dimma Hardwick might not be in his position too much longer. The draw gets even tougher for the Tigers, and winning this may allow for a stay of execution and perhaps a way out for the boxed in Richmond coach.
Pies by 12.
Brisbane Lions v Port Adelaide, Sunday Twilight 4:40pm, Gabba
Beating Carlton told us nothing about Brisbane’s current predicament, although it was good to see some Lions players who had started the year poorly put in a strong effort. Port will be reeling after their bizarre loss at home to the Eagles, so it should be a turnaround for the still flag hopefuls.
Power by 41.