AFL Round 2, March 21
St Kilda vs. Collingwood
March 21st
Is there an AFL team with more pressure on them than the reigning premiers?
Collingwood ($1.57) has endured a rough start to their premiership defense with losses to GWS and Sydney, but the market expects them to bounce back at the ‘G on Thursday night against the Saints.
Having won the past two matchups between these two sides, Craig McRae will be reminding his squad of its talent after giving up 216 points in two games this year. Their forward line is in disarray, and if it weren’t for Nick Daicos’ 34 and 37 disposals, respectively, their midfield would be another area undergoing serious expert examination.
The Saints were gallant during their eight-point loss in Geelong and could have snatched victory if not for the heroics of Patrick Dangerfield. Riley Bonner (28), Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera (25) and Jack Steele (25) led all comers for disposals, while Tim Membrey (3), Darcy Wilson (2), and Max King (2) provided a well-balanced forward 50 attack.
This is certainly not expected to be a blowout, but $1.57 seems reasonable to find out if the Pies have any chance in 2024.
Suggested Bet:
Magpies to win at $1.57
Adelaide vs. Geelong
March 22nd
The Crows will look to open their account on Friday night when they host the in-form Cats at Adelaide Oval.
It was a slow start to the season for Matthew Nicks and his chargers, as they managed just one goal in the opening half against the Suns. While they were able to fight back with seven goals to three in the second half – including a five-goal onslaught in Q4 – the expected return of Taylor Walker will certainly strengthen their set-up in front of goal.
Geelong could present value at $2.64 for the true believers after they held on and defeated the Saints in a thriller at GMHBA Stadium. Oliver Dempsey was a clear standout with three goals. Health-wise, Tanner Bruhn is the only player facing the clock with a sprained ankle.
If the Crows are finals-bound like many believe, this is simply one they must win.
Suggested Bet:
T. Walker first goal scorer at $7
North Melbourne vs. Fremantle
March 23rd
After dismantling Brisbane on Sunday night (93-70) in the upset of Round 1, the Dockers will look to make it two from two to start their 2024 campaign when they face the Kangaroos at Marvel Stadium.
They will, however, first need to navigate injuries to key talls Brennan Cox (hamstring) and Oscar McDonald (knee). Josh Draper has been tipped to take the defensive post, while Patrick Voss or Matt Taberner are potential inclusions in the forward line. The reintroduction of Nat Fyfe (21) into a midfield consisting of Caleb Serong (46) and Andrew Brayshaw (32) will undoubtedly cause plenty of headaches for Clarko and his assistant coaches.
North enters the game as $2.77 underdogs following their 39-point loss to the Giants. While they were unable to curb the influence of the Giants forwards – Jesse Hogan’s six goals for instance – they will be buoyed by the eventual margin and the fact they could welcome Luke McDonald and Jy Simpkin back this weekend.
Freo’s loss of talls will be welcome relief for the Roos, but the Purple Haze should still have too much firepower in that midfield.
Suggested Bet:
Kangaroos (+13.5) at $1.85
Western Bulldogs vs. Gold Coast
March 24th
If Collingwood enters this round with the most pressure of any team, the Bulldogs and Luke Beveridge come in at #2 after their 45-point loss to Melbourne.
Trailing by just 12 points at half-time, the Dogs imploded after the main break and managed just three goals to eight. Caleb Daniel (sub) and Jack Macrae (VFL) should come into the starting lineup, while Sam Darcy’s five goals for Footscray will put pressure on the Dogs’ ineffective talls.
The Suns could provide value for savvy punters at $2.20 as they attempt to win their third consecutive match under Damien Hardwick. Darcy Macpherson will likely replace the suspended Malcolm Rosas Jnr, and their midfield of Jarrod Witts, Matt Rowell, Touk Miller and Noah Anderson will certainly make the likes of Marcus Bontempelli, Tim English and Tom Liberatore accountable.
This should be a cracking contest, and the Suns should not be discounted.
