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.

PORT ADELAIDE v ESSENDON

Friday 5 April @ Adelaide Oval

Two sides that might end up around the same spot in the ladder at the end of year are the feature Friday night of Gather Round.

One comes off a 7 point loss, the other a 4 point win. Competitive games and at the end of the season, it's the close ones that matter most.

The Power played in a tough, tight game against Melbourne and will be disappointed not to come away with the victory given some of their forward dominance.

24 scoring shots to 21 and plenty of the pill but nothing to show for it in the end. They played alright but didn't take their chances.

Now they'll meet a defence who have previously been leaking points but held a bit firmer against the Saints. It is unusual for a Marvel Stadium game to be 10 goals to 9.

That means the pressure on the ball was given more credence than it often is there in fast, free-flowing track meets.

Zach Merrett is still leading the way but the 44 touches to Nic Martin are somewhere between a credit to him and maybe not.

One thing Essendon will have to overcome is recent history against Port.

The last seven times they've met, it has been Port Adelaide winning by an average margin of 38 points. Five of those come here too.

Still giving the Bombers some chance though but Port will want to be on their guard. They might just scramble home. This seems a game they get up for.

Match Selection: Port Adelaide by 7 points

Suggested Bets: Port Adelaide 1-39 @ $2.05 @ bet365

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