Friday August 9th
7:40 PM
Sydney vs Collingwood
Prediction: Collingwood win.
Reasoning: Sydney has had a challenging few weeks, highlighted by a significant 112-point loss to Port Adelaide, which exposed weaknesses in their contested possessions, groundball gets, and clearances. Despite their strong ladder position, these deficiencies suggest they are not currently playing like a premiership contender. On the other hand, Collingwood has been consistent throughout the season and is in a better position to exploit Sydney’s recent struggles. Collingwood’s ability to maintain pressure and capitalize on turnovers gives them a significant advantage. With the game being played at the SCG, Sydney might have some home-ground support, but Collingwood’s form and overall consistency make them the favorites to take this match.
Saturday August 10th
1:45 PM
Brisbane vs GWS Giants
Prediction: Brisbane win.
Reasoning: Brisbane has shown a remarkable turnaround in the last few weeks, climbing up the ladder and solidifying their finals hopes. Their recent form, particularly at home, has been impressive, and they’ve demonstrated a strong ability to control games. The GWS Giants, while also in good form and riding a wave of momentum with several consecutive wins, face a tough challenge in Brisbane. The Lions have a slight edge, especially with their percentage advantage and home-ground familiarity at the Gabba. While the Giants have the potential to cause an upset, Brisbane’s recent performances suggest they are better positioned to win, particularly if they can contain key Giants players like Jesse Hogan and Toby Greene.
1:45 PM
North Melbourne vs West Coast
Prediction: North Melbourne win.
Reasoning: Both North Melbourne and West Coast have had disappointing seasons, but North Melbourne comes into this match with slightly better form and a home-ground advantage. West Coast has struggled all season and has shown little improvement, especially in their away games. North Melbourne, while not a powerhouse, has been able to compete more effectively in recent weeks and has shown glimpses of better form. This match is a prime opportunity for North to secure a much-needed win, particularly against a West Coast side that has consistently underperformed. The game could be scrappy, but North Melbourne’s determination to finish the season on a high note should see them come out on top.
4:35 PM
Fremantle vs Geelong
Prediction: Geelong win.
Reasoning: Fremantle has been inconsistent this season, often struggling to close out games, as seen in their recent loss to Essendon where they led at three-quarter time. Geelong, while not in their peak form, has been more consistent and is fighting for a top-four finish. The Cats have a lot on the line and will be motivated to secure a win, particularly given the importance of this match in their bid for a strong finals position. Fremantle’s home-ground advantage could make this a close contest, but Geelong’s experience and ability to win under pressure give them the edge. If Fremantle cannot maintain their intensity throughout all four quarters, Geelong is likely to capitalize
7:30 PM
Melbourne vs Port Adelaide
Prediction: Port Adelaide win.
Reasoning: Port Adelaide comes into this game on the back of a massive win against Sydney, where they dominated in all key areas. Melbourne, on the other hand, has been inconsistent and is currently underperforming, making their path to the finals uncertain. The Demons have struggled with turnovers and clearances, areas where Port Adelaide has been strong. This game will be a significant test for both teams, but Port Adelaide’s current form and their ability to dominate contested possessions and score heavily make them the favorites. Melbourne’s home-ground advantage may help, but unless they significantly improve their recent performances, Port Adelaide should take the win.
7:30 PM
Prediction: Essendon win.
Reasoning: Essendon’s season has been up and down, but they come into this match with a crucial win over Fremantle. Gold Coast, meanwhile, has been consistently poor, particularly in away games, where they have struggled to compete. The Bombers have shown they can win in tight situations and will be motivated to keep their finals hopes alive. Gold Coast’s inability to perform on the road and their ongoing issues with consistency make them unlikely to challenge Essendon seriously. If Essendon can maintain the form they showed against Fremantle, they should comfortably secure a win against the Suns.
Sunday August 11th
1:10 PM
Carlton vs Hawthorn
Prediction: Carlton win.
Reasoning: Carlton has been competitive in recent weeks, even in their losses. They remain strong in key areas like turnovers, which are critical in close games. Hawthorn, while showing promise, has been vulnerable, particularly in defense. This match is crucial for both teams, but Carlton’s ability to score from turnovers and their overall consistency gives them an edge. If Carlton can control the midfield and capitalize on Hawthorn’s defensive lapses, they should be able to secure a win, keeping their finals hopes alive.
3:20 PM
Richmond vs St Kilda
Prediction: St Kilda win.
Reasoning: Richmond has been inconsistent all season, and their form in recent weeks has done little to suggest a turnaround. St Kilda, on the other hand, has been more consistent and is fighting hard to secure a spot in the finals. This match is critical for the Saints, and they are likely to approach it with a strong focus on defense and midfield control. Richmond has the potential to challenge, but their inconsistency and St Kilda’s stronger overall form make the Saints the favorites. St Kilda’s ability to control the pace of the game and minimize mistakes should see them through.
4:10 PM
Adelaide vs Western Bulldogs
Prediction: Western Bulldogs win.
Reasoning: The Western Bulldogs have been one of the more consistent teams in recent weeks, showing strong performances in both attack and defense. Adelaide, while competitive, has been inconsistent and has struggled against higher-ranked teams. The Bulldogs’ ability to score and defend effectively, coupled with Adelaide’s vulnerabilities, particularly in their defensive setup, gives the Bulldogs a significant advantage. If the Bulldogs can maintain their recent form and avoid complacency, they should be able to secure a win and solidify their position in the finals race.
