Geelong vs Western Bulldogs
This is easily the best match of the round, with two top-four contenders going head-to-head.
The Cats are firing on all cylinders now and should’ve put any doubt they’re a premiership contender to bed after their fantastic win over Port Adelaide last week.
The pressure goes up a notch, however, against the high-flying Western Bulldogs – but home ground advantage works massively in their favour.
The Doggies haven’t tasted victory at Kardinia Park since way back in 2003. Ironically, that’s also the last time they won the wooden spoon.
We don’t see the Bulldogs coming anywhere close to the spoon in 2021 but, unfortunately, they won’t be breaking the other streak either.
Cats by 31 $2.08 at PlayUp
Gold Coast vs Port Adelaide
After an encouraging start to the season, the wheels are starting to fall off at the Gold Coast and Stuart Dew looks to be under a smidge of pressure for the first time in his coaching career.
The Suns, as we all remember, scored their first-ever AFL win with a famous comeback against Port Adelaide back in 2011. Amazingly, they’ve never defeated them since.
That’s not changing on Saturday.
Power by 46 $4.30 at PlayUp
North Melbourne vs Brisbane
The two best games the Kangaroos have played in 2021 have been in Tasmania; their lone win over Hawthorn in Launceston and last week’s draw with the Giants in Hobart.
If you think that streak’s continuing, however, think again. The Brisbane Lions are a much better side than those other two put together and should put the unfamiliar territory aside with ease and rack up a big win.
Lions by 59 $2.08 at PlayUp
GWS Giants vs Carlton
Both teams have been a bit on the disappointing side in 2021, so this one’s all about home ground advantage.
Carlton has never won at Giants Stadium and their percentage at the ground (50.91) is the worst of any club. They simply cannot play here.
GWS will be smarting after their embarrassing draw with North Melbourne last week and should get the job done handily.
Giants by 34 $2.12 at PlayUp
Hawthorn vs Essendon
The Bombers will be out for revenge after a second-half stunner saw the Hawks pip them by a point back in Round 1.
Hawthorn looked sensational in their upset over the Swans last Friday night and, now that the game’s in Tassie, have a lot of momentum at their backs.
The Bombers, however, have too much to play for and – if they’re serious – should be able to exact vengeance for that earlier loss.
Bombers by 17 $2.14 at PlayUp
https://www.theroar.com.au/2021/06/17/the-roars-afl-expert-tips-and-predictions-round-14-6/
