Hawthorn vs. Western Bulldogs (MCG, 16th September)
What a huge game this is! In boxing terms you have a young, up-and-coming challenger in the Western Bulldogs ($2.55) taking on a champion fighter, Hawthorn ($1.52), which is up and against the ropes. I am tipping the hard-running Dogs to be too pacey for their opponents and deliver the Hawks the knockout blow to their 2016 finals campaign. Western Bulldogs look refreshed with a couple of its star players missing games late in the year. For me, I feel there are similarities between this young Dogs side and Port Adelaide’s team of 2014, which almost made the grand final. You would be a fool to completely rule out such a quality and seasoned side as are the Hawks, but there is certainly value in punting on the sons of the west.
Western Bulldogs 1 – 39 ($2.85)
Sydney vs. Adelaide (SCG, 17th September)
The Swans ($1.53) will relish the fact that they are back at their familiar ground of the SCG for its semi-final clash against Adelaide ($2.55). The Crows looked mightily impressive last week so the home side will take any advantage it can get. Star forward Lance Franklin had 20 disposals last week but failed to make an impact on the scoreboard, so expect the key forward to spend more time closer to goal. However, he will not have it all his own way with All-Australian defender Daniel Talia marking him closely. The result of this match, like most games at the SCG, will come down to who wins the midfield battle, and in particular the contested football. The Swans are usually specialists at this but were left trailing last week in their big loss to Greater Western Sydney. The home ground advantage nudges this game in favour of the Swans.
Sydney 1 – 39 ($2.15)
