The highly anticipated AFL season begins on Thursday with “Round 0” showcasing four marquee matchups, starting at the SCG as the Swans face the Demons.<\/p>\n
With Mills, Parker and Adams sidelined, the Swans face a midfield challenge in the opening round of the season. But watch out for Heeney, a standout in preseason, possibly the key against teams like Melbourne. Former Melbourne player Jordon’s flawless pre-season performance should see him get a spot in the 22 as he offers versatility in defence or attack. Grundy’s seized the top ruck spot and will be poised for a showdown with his former teammate – Max Gawn. Hamling and Melican will adapt in defence, ready when needed. It’s a season of unpredictability, with players fighting for spots. Keep an eye on the forward line mix-up, with McDonald, Amartey and McLean competing to fill Lance Franklin’s shoes.<\/p>\n
Everyone’s been talking about whether Oliver would finally make his return to senior action and coach Simon Goodwin has confirmed he’ll lineup in Round 0. After smashing it in two practice matches, he’s earned his spot. Rookie Windsor is also making his debut after impressing in those practice games. And let’s not forget about Billings, who’s been turning heads in his first summer with the club from the Saints. Now, the big question marks hang over Petty (toe) and Spargo (Achilles). They’ve been on the sidelines for the preseason, so it’s touch and go for them. If Petty can’t make it, Schache might just step up to fill the key forward spot. Recruit McAdam and winger Hunter are both dealing with calf injuries and the odds of them recovering in time for the season-opener are looking slim.<\/p>\n
The Swans have plenty of injuries to start the season and I’m not sure if the Dees have fixed their scoring issues. So I like the Under in the first game of the season as it’s 7-1 in the Demons last 8 games at night.<\/p>\n
Stadium Record<\/strong><\/p>\n Sydney are 21-9 at the SCG since 2021. Melbourne are 1-1 at this venue since 2021.<\/p>\n Head to Head Record<\/strong><\/p>\n Since 2018, the Swans are 5-4 against the Demons.<\/p>\n Best Bet<\/strong><\/p>\n Under 167.5 = $1.83<\/a><\/p>\n As the AFL season kicks off, all eyes are on Brisbane after their heart-wrenching Grand Final loss to Collingwood last year. We’re all eager to see if the Lions can bounce back stronger or if they’ll struggle to recover. With five consecutive years in the finals, the Lions have proven themselves, boasting a settled squad ready to compete at their peak. Facing Carlton in the Opening Round, coach Chris Fagan faces some tough decisions regarding the team lineup. The availability of McKenna remains uncertain, leaving room for Madden to step up and potentially secure a spot in the team. They love playing at the Gabba, having won their last 14 games and didn’t lose a game here at all last season.<\/p>\n Last year, Carlton fans were left fuming after a disappointing loss to Essendon, dropping the team to 15th on the ladder. But fast forward three months and the Blues were basking in the glory of finals victories in front of massive crowds. The turnaround was nothing short of remarkable. With coach Michael Voss, fresh off a contract extension, expected to lead them even further. However, Carlton’s road to success may face some hurdles due to injuries. Key players like Walsh, Durdin, Martin, Marchbank and Owies missed out on AFL practice matches. Williams, who only played in one VFL scratch match, is also a question mark. Moir, a potential AFL debutant, could fill in as the substitute, especially with several small forwards sidelined and recruit Elijah Hollands serving a suspension. Additionally, McKay’s impressive performance as the second ruck option during the pre-season could spell trouble for Pittonet’s playing time.<\/p>\n Beating the Lions at the Gabba isn’t easy as they’re 14-0 and Carlton don’t have the best record in Brissy either. So I like the Lions in the 1-39 market as I don’t think it’ll be a blowout.<\/p>\n Stadium Record<\/strong><\/p>\n Brisbane went 13-0 at the Gabba last season. Carlton have lost their last 4.<\/p>\n Head to Head Record<\/strong><\/p>\n The Lions are looking for a 6th straight win in this matchup.<\/p>\n Best Bet<\/strong><\/p>\n Brisbane Lions 1-39 = $2.05<\/a><\/p>\n The spotlight is on Gold Coast with Hardwick taking the reins after Stuart Dew’s departure last season. We’re all interested to see how Hardwick’s coaching style will influence the young Suns. With Hardwick expected to bring a similar playing style that brought Richmond three premierships in four years, the question remains: how quickly will the younger players adapt? As the season opener against Richmond approaches, Hardwick is still tinkering with the lineup after a tough pre-season game against GWS. They have a good recent record against the Tigers and I’m sure that Dimma would love nothing more than his first win as a Sun against his former side.<\/p>\n The big question is whether the Tigers can bounce back from their 13th-place finish last year. With key players like Jack Riewoldt and Trent Cotchin departing, there’s speculation that Richmond might be in for a rebuilding phase under Yze’s leadership, especially with a focus on developing younger talent with future draft picks. A lot depends on the fitness of key players like Nankervis, whose foot injury could sideline him for the start of the season. If he’s cleared to play, he’ll be a crucial asset for the team against Witts. Vlastuin’s absence from the practice match raises questions about his availability, with Brown waiting in the wings after a strong pre-season showing. Graham’s injury against Collingwood opens the door for Ross to make a comeback after a late appearance in the same match.<\/p>\n I’m riding the hype and backing the Suns in this one. They have a good record against the Tigers, who look to be in rebuild mode. Dimma to get them over the line.<\/p>\n Stadium Record<\/strong><\/p>\n Gold Coast are 3-2 in their last 5. Richmond are 12-6 in their history.<\/p>\nBrisbane Lions vs Carlton Blues<\/h3>\n
Gold Coast Suns vs Richmond Tigers<\/h3>\n