Fans couldn’t have asked for more from the AFL Finals Series opening round, with more of the same coming up this weekend.
BetDeluxe dives into both matches and delivers its best bets for each.
Demons vs. Blues
15th September 7:50PM
Can the Demons avoid a second consecutive straight sets exit? How will they respond to the Angus Brayshaw situation? What are they going to do about their forward line?
These are three sizable questions hanging over Melbourne’s head this week following their heartbreaking seven-point qualifying final loss to Collingwood. Simon Goodwin’s men certainly had their opportunities to win the game, but despite recording 32 more inside 50s than the Pies, they bungled far too many chances in the forward half of the ground.
The Dees will be without Angus Brayshaw (concussion) and Jacob van Rooyen (suspension), with either Charlie Spargo or Taj Woewodin the likely forward replacement. Reports suggest Max Gawn must play through a broken toe, while Goodwin will undoubtedly send Christian Petracca forward for large parts of the game.
Carlton returned to the postseason for the first time in a decade with a thrilling six-point victory over the Swans. They led by as much as 29 points at the main break, with Sam Walsh (28), Blake Acres (26), George Hewett (25) and Adam Cerra (24) continuing to dominate the midfield battle.
They too, will need to find replacements for key forward figures, with Harry McKay (concussion) and Jack Martin (suspension) sidelined for the week. Jesse Motlop will come in for Martin, but Jack Silvagni will undergo a fitness test before he is confirmed.
The two sides have gone 1-1 in their two meetings this year. BetDeluxe is offering $1.68 for the Dees to avoid another straight sets loss, something we can’t pass up against a McKay and Martin-less Blues.
TIP: Same Game Multi:
- Leg 1: Melbourne 1-39
- Leg 2: Under 155.5 total points
- Leg 3: S. Walsh 25+ disposals
- Leg 4: K. Pickett 2+ goals
- Total: $10
Power vs. Giants
16th September 7:40pm
While we’re spitting out essential questions, what about the Power? Will Charlie Dixon recover in time? What will they do with Travis Boak? Can they bounce back against the rampaging Giants?
After finishing third in the home and away season, Ken Hinkley’s chargers proved no match for the Lions at the Gabba as they slumped to a 48-point loss. Despite leading at the 24-minute mark of the second quarter, the Power were completely overrun as the locals piled on 11 goals to six in the second half.
Power forward Dixon will do his utmost to recover from a foot injury, while Dylan Williams (hamstring) and Trent McKenzie (ankle) went down during the Brisbane loss.
As for the Giants, they have impressed, unlike few others this season, after recovering from a 4-6 start to the year and making it through their elimination final with a dominant 24-point win over St Kilda. Proving they can play at any time and any place, the Giants became the first team in AFL history to win at 11 different venues.
Making life even better for Adam Kingsley in his first year at the club is the fact Stephen Coniglio (eye) will return from injury.
These sides met just a month ago in Round 22, with Port gaining the ascendancy and the market support ahead of this one following a 51-point victory at home.
TIP: Power to win @ $1.60
