Domain Stadium, 6.40pm (All times local time)
It’s hard to see Fremantle losing a game in the form they’re in at the moment. They were pushed all the way last week against Adelaide and were probably even outplayed for the first half of the match, however, still flew home with the points to show real grit. Richmond has improved immensely of late, but they don’t have the might to match it with Freo. To make matters worse, the Tigers have not beaten Fremantle in Perth since 2009. Watch out for Nat Fyfe, who collected 33 disposals and three Brownlow votes the last time these two sides met.
Fremantle by 18
MCG, 1.40pm
Despite a loss last week, Adelaide was very good against Fremantle, with the Dangerfield-Fyfe battle capturing everyone’s imagination. Carlton is ranked 17th for points scored, averaging 71.8, while Adelaide is ranked fifth, averaging 94.2 points per game. Carlton has surprisingly won four of the past five against the Crows but Adelaide will be far too strong this time around. The Blues welcome back Judd, Murphy and Kreuzer, while Yarran has been dropped for disciplinary reasons. Carlton fans will also get a first-hand look at just what they are missing, with Eddie Betts lining up for the Crows and likely to want to have a big game against his old club.
Adelaide by 50
Metricon Stadium, 4.35pm
Sydney was in cruise control last week against Carlton and could’ve easily won by a lot more if they played at their best. They will be well rested and will hope to put the Suns away in similar fashion in the first half again this week. For the Suns, who have suspended two more players due to drinking the night before a game (Jack Martin and Charlie Dixon), they will simply want to be competitive against one of the best sides in the competition.
Sydney by 40
Adelaide Oval, 7.10pm
Port Adelaide may have won by 61 points last week, but don’t let that fool you, with a lacklustre Power outfit taking over a half of football to get on top of the Dees. The Bulldogs bounced back with a vengeance last week after three straight losses. We’re tipping the Dogs this week to continue their exciting start to the year.
Western Bulldogs by 15
Etihad Stadium, 7.20pm
This is a hugely important game for both sides, with both teams’ seasons delicately poised at 4-5. A loss would spell disaster and make it very hard for the loser to make the eight. Essendon is arguably under more pressure than the Cats, with the Bombers’ list seemingly at the point in their development to push for a top four birth, however results have not been forthcoming. Watson and Fletcher are out for Essendon, which will make the task even more difficult. In the heat of the battle and when the pressure on, we’re tipping Geelong to just get over the line thanks to their experienced players.
Geelong by 13
Spotless Stadium, 1.10pm
Don’t read too much into the Giants’ loss last week, they will bounce back from that minor hiccup and win this one comfortably. Their loss to a very good Bulldogs outfit will only spur a very hungry GWS team on even further. Mumford will be keen to have a big impact after being soundly beaten in the ruck last week against Will Minson. Brisbane has a host of changes with James Aish (Jaw), Ryan Harwood (Concussion), Claye Beams (Knee), Tom Rockliff (Ribs) and Jed Adcock (Calf) all out through injury.
GWS by 30
Blundstone Arena, 3.20pm
This is line in the sand game for the Kangaroos. The Roos sit 13th on the ladder with a 4-5 record after such high expectations following last season’s run to the preliminary final. Brad Scott’s absence from the coaching box due to back surgery has not come at a good time for them. If they put up a similar performance to last week’s second half fadeout against Collingwood, they can kiss their top four chances goodbye. West Coast on the other hand has gone from strength to strength. They were brilliant against Geelong last week and have now won six in a row. The Kangaroos have won four games in a row in Tasmania, but that record won’t save them this week. Goldstein v Naitanui will be a fascinating contest in the ruck.
West Coast by 16
Etihad Stadium, 4.40pm
Hawthorn has won the past four against St. Kilda by an average winning margin of 64 points. The Hawks are second in the competition for points scored (106.8 per game) and No.1 for inside 50s (61.2 per game), despite only managing to win five games so far this season. The Saints have been impressive this season and recorded a defiant come from behind victory last round, but their defence will have their work cut out this week against the an attacking Hawthorn side.
Hawthorn by 38
MCG, 3.20pm
No one would’ve picked that second half comeback from the Pies last week. They will be riding a wave of adrenaline after that brilliant performance and will get the job done again this week. Expect Melbourne to be gallant and to give it their all for former coach Neale Daniher. Youngster Jesse Hogan is a marvel to watch and will bring Melbourne fans through the turnstiles each week for years to come, expect him to have another impact on Monday.
Collingwood by 25