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.
HAWTHORN v MELBOURNE
Saturday 23 March @ MCG
The merger mobs get together again at the MCG for what could be an entertaining affair.
It's not like they will be meeting again in the Finals but expecting a free flowing fixture.
Hawthorn had a crack against Essendon despite their injuries. They were right in it at the final turn but a couple of late ones put a margin between them which was slightly unfair.
Losing won't please Sam Mitchell but the manner of their approach could well. Building up that midfield will only help long term but that forward line is what could well be the Achilles heel.
D'Ambrosio made an impressive start alongside some regulars from last year in Worpel and Newcombe.
They now meet a side who got back on track. Melbourne fans were panicking after the Sydney game but reality was they meet a good side in good form.
It took a little while to finally kill off the Bulldogs but once the wall broke, the last quarter was one way traffic. It's hard not to believe Oliver will only improve as he gets fitter and more confident.
Add him to Petracca, and Gawn fighting back from the Grundy mauling, and that is three of the best. This is nothing people haven't seen but when it works, it's mighty hard to beat.
You can see the Hawks playing well in patches here but if the Demons are on for long enough, they'll have too much class. Fritsch and Brown need to be more involved though.
A fine twilight night might see a lot of goals scored. James Sicily somehow getting a judiciary downgrade and playing now softens that strong confidence of a weaker defence but a fine day helps.
Match Selection: Melbourne by 22 points
Suggested Bets: Total Match Score 169.5 @ $1.89 @ bet365
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