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.

GOLD COAST v ADELAIDE

Saturday 16 March @ Peoples First Stadium

This could well be the matchup of two sides very much looking boldly at a spot in the Finals – one for the first time and the other for the first time in a while.

Even if Richmond is not the measuring stick they were not all too long back, Gold Coast's dismantling of them last Saturday was clinical.

Damien Hardwick has free reign from all involved to do what he needs to do to make them better. There is plenty to work with though.

All those Draft picks are ready to rumble at times in 2024 and they almost have another in Matt Rowell who hasn't had a proper go with injury and form over the last two years.

Then if Touk Miller adds his skill plus Anderson and others, they have depth more than before. Conversion is their issue. Ben King must keep firing. If he kicks 60+ goals they are in the mix for finals.

The Crows ended 2023 disappointingly and it wasn't much of their fault. Sure bad kicking let them down in a lot of closer losses through the year but that killer game at home against the Swans did them in.

Having lost that fateful Score Review, it took the wind out of their sails and fired up the local media putting all of that wind back.

All they will be hoping for is the further evolution of the younger group. They can't expect Taylor Walker to contribute as greatly, so flexibility in the forward line and maybe Izak Rankine closer to the ball will just add to them.

This should be a really good game. History may not be a valid pointer given the changes on the Coast but Adelaide has played them 18 times for 15 wins. However GC has 3 of the last 5.

Gold Coast starting favourites does scare a little. Especially starting strong elects. But having played the game with more confidence too, let's stay on them just.

Match Selection: Gold Coast by 9 points

Suggested Bets: Gold Coast 1-39 @ $2.15 @ bet365

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