3 minute read
Racing and Sports will provide analysis of games in the 2024 AFL Season.
We'll endeavour to run through the form, incorporate appropriate stats and also supply a betting prediction which won't always just be who will win.
SYDNEY v MELBOURNE
Thursday 7 March @ SCG
It's Round 1 – no it's not. But you know what we mean.
The 2024 season begins with the clash of the two biggest cities and two sides who really need to regain their vaunted hype.
Melbourne went out in straight sets via close but disappointing means two years on trot coming off a flag. Sydney had lost the Grand Final a year after that only to make the finals but also lose their only post season game.
The difference for them in 2024 is that the lead up had been vastly diverse. The Swans buoyant via new faces and confidence, the Demons some upheavals away from the field of play.
Sydney landed big recruits during trade. Grundy and Adams for midfield experience, Jordan inside and out and Hamling down back in defensive depth.
Then they also changed the leadership structure with Callum Mills, doing No 14 proud, with sole ownership of the 'C' badge. How much of the year will he play after Mad Monday exploits?
For Melbourne it's sadly been all about Clayton Oliver and other issues he has faced away from the team. How will that impact him/them or will it in any way? Remember he is now playing which surprised a few.
Some injuries have also set them back so it has not been plain sailing.
They met in the last round last year and the Demons were too strong at the SCG, running away late. You thought that would lead to a grand final exposure but not at all.
Back at the start of that season it was far more enlightening with Melbourne giving Sydney a shellacking.
Before that Sydney had a good run of form at either venue in their clashed. 11 wins from the last 13 outings prior.
The ruck game will be such a focus. Grundy against Gawn will not be an intra-club anymore but of far more seriousness. It is a long season but Brodie will be so fired up. New ruck laws could also affect things perhaps more in Gawn's domain.
Was all set to confidently tip the Swans given their optimistic outlook and the negative nature of the Demon's build up but in the last fortnight things have turned 180 degrees.
It will really be the changing of the guard in the Sydney midfield with no Parker, Mills and now Adams. Big weights are now on the shoulders of Warner, Gulden, Heeney and Sheldrick.
If they can produce it will be a famous win and will have bookies twiddling some September odds. Whether that is fair and reasonable is another thing but it won't stop them.
But it is Melbourne – JUST!!!
Match Selection: Melbourne by 3 points
Suggested Bets: Melbourne 1-39 @ $2.40
