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Round 23: Previews and Predictions

Published by
Matthew Hickey

Hawthorn vs. Western Bulldogs

Friday, Etihad Stadium 7:50pm, AEST

One last roll of the dice for the Western Bulldogs in their bid to defend their crown. They have to claim the four points and also need other results to go their way if they are to play finals.

Hawthorn's season is over, but they will be hoping to send off Luke Hodge in the right way. Despite their ladder positions, expect these two to play off in an exciting affair.

The selection table should provide intriguing debate, with Tom Boyd returning to football, and Matt Boyd playing also earning a recall in what could be his final game.

Tip: Bulldogs by 17

Collingwood vs. Melbourne

Saturday, MCG 1:45pm, AEST

Another important match-up in the scheme of the finals. The scenario is simple for the Demons, win and they guarantee themselves a place in September action. Collingwood on the other hand will be playing for pride, and potentially the coaching career of Nathan Buckley.

On paper it looks to be Melbourne's game to lose, however, the Pies have dished up some solid football of late. With big changes expected in the off-season, this could also be the last chance to impress for some Collingwood players.

With their quality across the ground, the Demons should win this game. However, don't be surprised if Buckley's men give them a massive scare.

Tip: Demons by 23

Brisbane vs. North Melbourne

Saturday, Gabba 2:10pm, AEST

The battle for the wooden spoon! Or potentially the number one draft pick. Either way this result will have many repercussions heading into the off-season.

Keep an eye out on the teams when they are released for both sides tonight, with every chance that some senior players could be left out. Considering both teams' recent history, North Melbourne's record at the Gabba is not great. They have lost six of their past eight games at the ground. In saying that, their two wins have been their two most recent matches at the venue.

This one is near impossible to predict, as no one is sure what will go down. Hopefully for the neutral fan, it is a close game. Purely based on home ground advantage, you have to side with the Lions.

Tip: Lions by 12

Sydney vs. Carlton

Saturday, SCG 4:35pm, AEST

This will be one final tune up for Sydney as they head into yet another finals series. Depending on results, they also have the opportunity to slide inside the top four.

The Swans will remember what happened the last time they faced Carlton, with the Blues handing the Swans their sixth loss in a row to start the season. Expect them to come out breathing fire and ready to exact some revenge.

It's a tough game for the Blues, however, hopefully for their fans their young players take it as another chance to impress the coaching staff.

Tip: Swans by 52

Geelong vs. GWS

Saturday, Simonds Stadium 7:25pm, AEST

The marquee game of the round sees Geelong and the Giants do battle. The winner of this game will book themselves a home qualifying final, and get the edge over the side they could very well face in the first round of the finals.

Rhys Stanley is expected to return for the Cats, while Steve Johnson will make what should be an emotional return to Geelong for the very last time.

The Cats are still missing Joel Selwood, but over the past few weeks have welcomed back a bevvy of stars. With this game being played at Simonds, it is very difficult to go against them.

Tip: Cats by 8

Port Adelaide vs. Gold Coast

Saturday, Adelaide Oval 7:40pm, AEST

Despite some inconsistencies throughout the year, Port Adelaide is still a chance to finish inside the top four. Results would obviously have to go the Power's way, however, their strong percentage makes it a slightly less complicated scenario.

This match-up is one that the Power should definitely win. They are playing Gold Coast, and will also have the advantage of playing at home. So far it does seem as though Gary Ablett will play, but even with him in the side, it will be an uphill battle for the Suns.

They may not make the top four, however the Power should still win and take some form into the finals series.

Tip: Power by 31

Essendon vs. Fremantle

Sunday, Etihad Stadium 1:10pm, AEST

Another game that will have implications in regards to the makeup of the top eight. Essendon is holding onto a finals position by just 1.8%. The Bombers need to win this game to give themselves the best possible chance to stay in the top eight.

The pressure will also be on Fremantle, who have put in two insipid displays in a row, losing by 104 points in consecutive weeks. Yes it was against fantastic opposition in Richmond and Sydney, however, they still need to be better.

Essendon should claim the four points, but here is hoping that Fremantle offer up something better than they have over the past few weeks.

Tip: Bombers by 33

Richmond vs. St. Kilda

Sunday, MCG 3:20pm, AEST

It is a relatively simple equation for Richmond, win and they assure themselves a top four finish, lose and they are at risk of missing out on a double chance.

With all that at stake, the Tigers have to face a side who beat them soundly in their last match-up and who will bid farewell to a retiring great. Expect emotions to boil over at some points of the game, as there will be plenty to play for.

It is unfair that each week Richmond has a number of questions raised about them, however, that is what happens due to the club and it's history. This will be another week where the Tigers will be tested, but they should claim the four points.

Tip: Richmond by 21

West Coast vs. Adelaide

Sunday, Domain Stadium 4:40pm, AEST

West Coast is facing a massive challenge this weekend. If the Eagles want any chance of playing finals football, they must defeat the top of the table Crows. One thing that will be in their favour will be home ground advantage.

Sadly for Eagles fans, it just does not seem like their side will have the firepower to go with and get over the top of the Crows. Missing out on finals will be bitterly disappointing, however, one shining light could be Josh Kennedy claiming another Coleman Medal. He currently leads Joe Daniher by four goals, which could very well be enough to get him over the line.

Tip: Crows by 27

Published by
Matthew Hickey