Thursday, September 5th
Match Time: 7:10 PM
Port Adelaide vs Geelong
Prediction: Port Adelaide by 22 points.
Analysis: Port Adelaide comes into this clash as one of the most in-form teams in the competition, having won their last six games, including victories over fellow top-eight contenders. Their midfield, led by Zak Butters and Connor Rozee, has been dominant, consistently winning clearances and driving the ball forward, which has been a key factor in their success. Additionally, the Power’s defense has tightened up significantly, making it difficult for opposition teams to score freely. Geelong, while a team rich in finals experience, has shown signs of vulnerability, particularly in their recent loss to St Kilda, where they were outplayed in crucial moments. The Cats’ inconsistency, especially against stronger teams, is a concern. Port Adelaide’s home-ground advantage at Adelaide Oval further tilts the balance in their favor. Given their explosive form, the Power is well-positioned to secure a victory and advance directly to the Preliminary Finals, adding pressure on Geelong to regroup quickly if they want to stay in the hunt for the premiership.
Friday, September 6th
Match Time: 7:40 PM
Western Bulldogs vs Hawthorn
Prediction: Western Bulldogs by 16 points.
Analysis: The Western Bulldogs are entering this match with momentum, having found consistent form in the latter part of the season. Their forward line, featuring key players like Marcus Bontempelli, Aaron Naughton, and Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, has been particularly potent, making them a tough team to defend against. The Bulldogs’ midfield, led by Tom Liberatore and Jack Macrae, is also one of the most formidable in the competition, regularly winning clearances and setting up scoring opportunities. Hawthorn, on the other hand, has been the surprise of the season, finishing strong and securing a spot in the finals after a mid-season resurgence. The Hawks have played with confidence and flair, but they lack the finals experience that the Bulldogs possess. While Hawthorn has the potential to challenge, particularly if their young stars perform at their best, the Bulldogs’ depth, experience, and ability to perform under pressure should see them through. Expect a close contest, but the Bulldogs’ firepower and composure in tight situations give them the edge.
Saturday, September 7th
Match Time: 3:20 PM
Sydney Swans vs GWS Giants
Prediction: GWS Giants by 8 points.
Analysis: Although Sydney finished the season as minor premiers, their recent form against top-eight teams has been less convincing. Although they’ve won their last three games, these victories came against lower-ranked opponents, and there are concerns about their ability to handle the pressure of finals. The Swans have struggled in clearances and tackling pressure, ranking poorly in these key metrics. This could be problematic against a GWS Giants team that, despite a recent loss to the Western Bulldogs, has been one of the form teams of the competition in the latter half of the season. The Giants’ midfield, led by Josh Kelly and Tom Green, has been dominant, and their ability to win contested possessions could prove crucial. With Sydney showing signs of complacency and GWS having a stronger recent record against top teams, the Giants are well-placed to cause an upset. This match is expected to be closely contested, but the Giants’ recent experience and form give them a slight edge.
Match Time: 7:30 PM
Brisbane Lions vs Carlton
Prediction: Brisbane by 34 points.
Analysis: Brisbane Lions have been one of the strongest teams at home this season, and their form heading into the finals suggests they are primed for a deep run. The Lions have shown the ability to dominate games, particularly at the Gabba, where they have a significant home-ground advantage. Their forward line, featuring Joe Daniher and Eric Hipwood, has been in excellent form, and their midfield, led by Lachie Neale, has been consistently strong. On the other hand, Carlton has limped into the finals, plagued by injuries to key players such as Charlie Curnow and Adam Saad. The Blues’ form has been inconsistent, and their ability to perform at the required level in the finals is in question. While Carlton has shown resilience throughout the season, the sheer number of injuries and their recent struggles make them significant underdogs in this match. Brisbane’s ability to control the game, combined with Carlton’s injury concerns, should see the Lions secure a comfortable victory and advance to the next round.
