2024 AFL Round 0 Betting Predictions
The highly anticipated AFL season begins on Thursday with "Round 0" showcasing four marquee matchups, starting at the SCG as the Swans face the Demons.
Sydney Swans vs Melbourne Demons
With Mills, Parker and Adams sidelined, the Swans face a midfield challenge in the opening round of the season. But watch out for Heeney, a standout in preseason, possibly the key against teams like Melbourne. Former Melbourne player Jordon's flawless pre-season performance should see him get a spot in the 22 as he offers versatility in defence or attack. Grundy's seized the top ruck spot and will be poised for a showdown with his former teammate - Max Gawn. Hamling and Melican will adapt in defence, ready when needed. It's a season of unpredictability, with players fighting for spots. Keep an eye on the forward line mix-up, with McDonald, Amartey and McLean competing to fill Lance Franklin's shoes.
Everyone's been talking about whether Oliver would finally make his return to senior action and coach Simon Goodwin has confirmed he'll lineup in Round 0. After smashing it in two practice matches, he's earned his spot. Rookie Windsor is also making his debut after impressing in those practice games. And let's not forget about Billings, who's been turning heads in his first summer with the club from the Saints. Now, the big question marks hang over Petty (toe) and Spargo (Achilles). They've been on the sidelines for the preseason, so it's touch and go for them. If Petty can't make it, Schache might just step up to fill the key forward spot. Recruit McAdam and winger Hunter are both dealing with calf injuries and the odds of them recovering in time for the season-opener are looking slim.
The Swans have plenty of injuries to start the season and I'm not sure if the Dees have fixed their scoring issues. So I like the Under in the first game of the season as it's 7-1 in the Demons last 8 games at night.
Stadium Record
Sydney are 21-9 at the SCG since 2021. Melbourne are 1-1 at this venue since 2021.
Head to Head Record
Since 2018, the Swans are 5-4 against the Demons.
Best Bet
Brisbane Lions vs Carlton Blues
As the AFL season kicks off, all eyes are on Brisbane after their heart-wrenching Grand Final loss to Collingwood last year. We're all eager to see if the Lions can bounce back stronger or if they'll struggle to recover. With five consecutive years in the finals, the Lions have proven themselves, boasting a settled squad ready to compete at their peak. Facing Carlton in the Opening Round, coach Chris Fagan faces some tough decisions regarding the team lineup. The availability of McKenna remains uncertain, leaving room for Madden to step up and potentially secure a spot in the team. They love playing at the Gabba, having won their last 14 games and didn't lose a game here at all last season.
Last year, Carlton fans were left fuming after a disappointing loss to Essendon, dropping the team to 15th on the ladder. But fast forward three months and the Blues were basking in the glory of finals victories in front of massive crowds. The turnaround was nothing short of remarkable. With coach Michael Voss, fresh off a contract extension, expected to lead them even further. However, Carlton's road to success may face some hurdles due to injuries. Key players like Walsh, Durdin, Martin, Marchbank and Owies missed out on AFL practice matches. Williams, who only played in one VFL scratch match, is also a question mark. Moir, a potential AFL debutant, could fill in as the substitute, especially with several small forwards sidelined and recruit Elijah Hollands serving a suspension. Additionally, McKay's impressive performance as the second ruck option during the pre-season could spell trouble for Pittonet's playing time.
Beating the Lions at the Gabba isn't easy as they're 14-0 and Carlton don't have the best record in Brissy either. So I like the Lions in the 1-39 market as I don't think it'll be a blowout.
Stadium Record
Brisbane went 13-0 at the Gabba last season. Carlton have lost their last 4.
Head to Head Record
The Lions are looking for a 6th straight win in this matchup.
Best Bet
Gold Coast Suns vs Richmond Tigers
The spotlight is on Gold Coast with Hardwick taking the reins after Stuart Dew's departure last season. We're all interested to see how Hardwick's coaching style will influence the young Suns. With Hardwick expected to bring a similar playing style that brought Richmond three premierships in four years, the question remains: how quickly will the younger players adapt? As the season opener against Richmond approaches, Hardwick is still tinkering with the lineup after a tough pre-season game against GWS. They have a good recent record against the Tigers and I'm sure that Dimma would love nothing more than his first win as a Sun against his former side.
The big question is whether the Tigers can bounce back from their 13th-place finish last year. With key players like Jack Riewoldt and Trent Cotchin departing, there's speculation that Richmond might be in for a rebuilding phase under Yze's leadership, especially with a focus on developing younger talent with future draft picks. A lot depends on the fitness of key players like Nankervis, whose foot injury could sideline him for the start of the season. If he's cleared to play, he'll be a crucial asset for the team against Witts. Vlastuin's absence from the practice match raises questions about his availability, with Brown waiting in the wings after a strong pre-season showing. Graham's injury against Collingwood opens the door for Ross to make a comeback after a late appearance in the same match.
I'm riding the hype and backing the Suns in this one. They have a good record against the Tigers, who look to be in rebuild mode. Dimma to get them over the line.
Stadium Record
Gold Coast are 3-2 in their last 5. Richmond are 12-6 in their history.
Head to Head Record
The Suns have won the last 3 meetings.
Best Bet
GWS Giants vs Collingwood Magpies
2024 is shaping up to be the year for Tom Green to make his mark on the team. With impressive stats leading the league in disposals and contested possessions per game last season and ranking 10th for score involvements, Green is set to elevate himself into AFL stardom in his fourth season. If he can stay injury-free, he's a serious contender for the Brownlow Medal. The GWS team is settling into a mature phase, with players like Wehr and O'Halloran expected to take on key roles on the wings due to the absence of Cumming and Callaghan. Haynes is also in the mix. Cadman's inclusion in the team means Riccardi will need to step up as the second ruck option behind Briggs.
The big question on everyone's lips this AFL season is whether Collingwood can break a nearly 90-year dry spell and go back-to-back. Under coach Craig McRae, the Magpies have been on a roll, winning 38 of their last 51 games. But can they maintain that impressive winning streak in 2024 and make another shot at the flag? History tells us it's a tough road ahead. As they gear up for the new season, Collingwood has some decisions to make regarding their lineup. McStay's position has been up for grabs all summer, with McInnes and Johnson battling it out in the pre-season. However, the team might stick with a similar setup to last year's Grand Final to kick off the season. Dean has been pushing for an Opening Round debut, especially with Murphy out, while Lipinski has secured his spot in the lineup. Macrae and Noble are also in contention after their impressive performances, though Markov has been solid too.
Hard to back against the premiers as underdogs. They always travel well interstate and I think they could win this, especially having won the last 3 against GWS.
Stadium Record
GWS are 3-2 in the last 5 games. Collingwood are 4-3 in AFL history.
Head to Head Record
The Pies are looking for a 4th win on the trot.
Best Bet
