Sportsbet Blog

*See Round 1 2011 Tips Here

 

Round one of the 2010 AFL season is upon us and footy tipping will be very tough this year with the gap between the top four clubs shortening in what could be a very interesting year. Once again the team at Sportsbet Blog will give you our expert tips for every round this year along with a few good betting tips along the way.

It’s always hard to tip round 1 as so much can change during the off season but luckily I predict a fairly straight forward round.

The game of round 1 is defiantly the Western Bulldogs V Collingwood. Both teams have recruited well over the summer with the Bulldogs picking up the “Big Bad” Barry Hall who has shown what the year could bring booting 7 fine goals last week in the NAB Cup grand final. Collingwood had picked up ex St Kilda captain Luke Ball who has impressed in the preseason games and star ruckman Darren Jolly who at his 3rd club has be chosen in the Pies leadership group this year. It will be interesting how the new players go this week and should make for a very interesting game.

Don’t forget to join the 2010 Million Dollar Footy Tipping. Checkout our tipping review or to join see the Sportsbet site here. They also give you up to $200 worth of free bets just for joining!

Best Bet for Round 1

This week I like Adelaide for the straight win. With odds of $1.78 at Sportsbet, I think there plenty of value to be had especially against the weaker Freo side.

Richmond V Carlton Thursday Night at the MCG

Tip: Carlton

Carlton: $1.45

Richmond: $2.80

The season opener should see Carlton get a early win on the board. Richmond looks like they may have another tough year starting at round one.

They will be without the important Jake King after being suspended during a NAB Challenge match against Collingwood last week (why get worked up in a preseason game!). Also the one and only Ben Cousins who isn’t 100% after being admitted to the hospital with gastric inflammation will not at his best.

Geelong V Essendon Friday Night at the MCG

Tip: Geelong

Geelong: $1.23

Essendon: $4.25

The Cats should roll the Bombers on Friday night. Essendon will have to make up for Leroy Jetta (Hand Injury) and Michael Hurley (Club Suspended) both will be out with Hurley to miss the first 3 rounds after a drunken incident in the Grand Final week last year.

Geelong should be at full strength and will be out to start off on a good note after a early drop out from the NAB Cup.

Melbourne V Hawthorn Saturday at the MCG

Tip: Hawthorn

Melbourne: $5.20

Hawthorn: $1.16

Unfortunately it could be history repeating itself for the Hawks with numerous injuries leading into the season proper. They should be able to hold Melbourne off this week but will take alot of perseverance from the Hawthorn midfield.

The Hawks will be without Buddy Franklin, Cyril Rioli, Simon Taylor (long term) and clouds of doubt over Jarryd Roughhead  and Glen Moss who will be 50/50 to play. Wayde Skipper has also been rubbed out for six to eight weeks with a damaged hamstring.

That being said I think they will regroup and beat Melbourne who are still in rebuilding stages.

Sydney V St Kilda Saturday Night at ANZ Stadium

Tip: St Kilda

Sydney: $2.70

St Kilda: $1.48

The Saints play well against Sydney and have a good record at ANZ Stadium. Last year (round 1) St Kilda kept Sydney goalless for 2 quarters of footy at ANZ stadium to run out 15 point winners in a low scoring game.

It will be interesting if the Saints will bounce back to their normal 2009 self after a lackluster NAB Cup series winning 2 games by a point (one of them against Sydney) and getting thrashed by the Bulldogs in the final.

The game will be won in Sydney’s forward line. With two of their top 5 goal kickers from last year in Hall and Jolly leaving the Swans players like Jesse White will have to step up and try and break the usually solid Saints back line.

Brisbane Lions V West Coast Saturday Night at the GABBA

Tip: Brisbane Lions

Brisbane: $1.36

West Coast: $3.20

The Lions, with their new look team and new “Paddle Pop Lion” logo will be one to watch this year if they can stick to the game plans and gel together. Brisbane now boast the most powerful forward line with Brendan Fevola and Jonathon Brown which should see them easily take care of West Coast at the Gabba on Saturday night.

Players like defender Josh Drummond and Justin Sherman have both had great preseasons and will be ones to watch.

Port Adelaide V North Melbourne Sunday at AMMI Stadium

Tip: Port Adelaide

Port Adelaide: $1.45

North Melbourne: $2.80

After an impressive NAB Cup campaign I expect big things from Port this year starting with the Kangaroos on Sunday.

Port impressed in their narrow loss to the Bulldogs a few weeks ago with Daniel Motlop and Justin Westhoff the shining light. They were on top of the Bulldogs for 90% of the game and if they can replicate the flare they played with they should run out easy victors over North Melbourne who will be with out Cruize Garlett, Majak Daw, Levi Greenwood and Ed Lower.

Western Bulldogs V Collingwood Sunday at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Western Bulldogs

Western Bulldogs: $1.64

Collingwood: $2.30

This weeks match of the round will attract a massive crowd and should be a great contest. Both teams are expected to do well this year and Collingwood will be out to knock off the NAB Cup winners and get off to a positive start.

I don’t think they can do it. The Bulldogs now have Barry Hall, the goto man and my Coleman Medal winner prediction. They look to be a near perfect side with the run through the middle and strength and height at either end. My prediction is for the Bulldogs to win by around 28 points.

Keep an eye out for Luke Ball for the Pies, he will be out to impress with his new club. He has racked up the possessions and kicked a few goals in the preseason cup.

Fremantle V Adelaide Sunday at Subiaco Oval

Tip: Adelaide

Fremantle: $2.00

Adelaide: $1.83

Adelaide haven’t had the best start into round one with numerous injuries to their senior players. Vince, McLeod, Burton, Edward, Thompson, Maric and Sellar have all had limited match time over the last few weeks but all are expect to play against Freo on Sunday afternoon.

I really can’t see where Freo could win this match, they are a young side who are still growing and will struggle with the skills of the Crows side. Good luck to coach Mark Harvey in what could be his last year at Freo with his contract running out at the end of the year.

The 2009 AFL Grand Final against St Kilda and Geelong is set to be one of the best of all time especially after the round 14 “game of the season” between the clubs earlier this year.

Both teams are going into Saturdays match with high hopes and have been in great form leading into the game.

St Kilda

The Saints have with no doubt been the best team this year only losing two games for the season. I think they have the list to win the Grand Final on Saturday and should do so. My prediction is the Saints by 14 points.

The match will be won in the midfield and the Saints on paper seem to match-up better with Geelong in this area.

I’m expecting the Saints to once again to get off to a slow start and will most likely be behind at the first break. Once they start to relax into the game and get an idea of Geelong’s game plan they will put the squeeze on them in the middle of the ground and turn thing around. This is where it will come undone for Geelong.

I expect coach Ross Lyon to pick an unchanged side that beat the Bulldogs by 7 points last week which will see club favourite Max Hudghton on the side lines. Hudghton, who played in St Kilda’s losing 1997 Grand Final would be a good fit in the back line, but with minimal match time in the last few months it would be a massive risk picking him going into the final.

Geelong

The Cats have had another great season finishing second on the ladder and are going into the Grand Final as clear favourite with the bookies after excellent form in the final series. They have managed the injuries to their key player well and have a full list to pick from.

Although Matthew Stokes was dropped for the match against Collingwood last week I expect him to get the nod this week. He playes fairly well against the Saints and would be expected to kick a couple of important goals.

Alot of people are saying Geelong will be spured on after the Grand Final loss last year. I think if they are down a couple of goals in the 2nd half the preasure of potentialy losing another grand final could see them crumble.

Paul Chapman will be the key to Geelong winning or losing the game, if he can shake his tagger it will go a long way to Geelong kicking a winning score. This will be a tough ask against the leagues top defence and will be worth keeping an eye on.

Odds & Tips

Match Odds

• St Kilda: $2.54
• Geelong $1.63

Here are my top 5 best bets for the game.

1. Norm Smith Medal Tip: Nick Riewoldt with odds of $11.00
2. Load up on Geelong to win the 1st quarter paying $1.82
3. Take the Cats/Saints Half Time/Full Time Double paying $8.20
4. Saints to win by under 39.5 with odds of $3.10 at Betfair
5. I also like Nick Riewoldt in the most goals market at $3.00

Telecast Times:

Australia:

The game is live around Australia on Channel 10 with the telecast starting at 8:00am AEST

The AFL Radio stations are covering the game include ABC774, K-Rock, SEN, Triple M and 3AW.

International Telecast:

The AFL Final is beamed on TV live around the world. Here’s where you can catch the game.

UK: ESPN from 5:30am BST

USA: ESPN Classic from 12:25am US/Eastern or at ESPN360.com

ASIA: Australia Network 11:30am Hong Kong/China. 10:30am Indonesia/Thailand

7:45 Friday Night at the MCG

Telecast Times

TV: Channel 7 Starting at 8:00pm (30min Delay)

Radio: ABC774, K-Rock, SEN, MMM, 3AW all have the game live

Betfair Match Odds

St Kilda: 1.39

Western Bulldogs: 3.50

Best Betfair Bet: Western Bulldogs to win the first quarter with odds of 2.56. St Kilda’s first quarters of late have been fairly slow and they take a good 20 min to get going. I think the Doggies have a good chance to win this quarter and with the odds of 2.56 its well worth a bet.

Tip: St Kilda by 21 points

[More]

We are now down to round 26 and is the last round of the 2009 NRL season. It is setting up to be a good one as the last couple of finals positions are still up for grabs.

The top teams will be looking for big wins to make their presence felt, while the bottom teams will be trying to upset whoever they can. At the end of the day, no-one wants to lose this week whether they are bottom or top of the NRL ladder.

The odds that are listed below are from BetFair. NRL betting is best at BetFair with a wide range to choose from including winning margin and first try. Check out our review of BetFair Here.

My Round 26 tips are as follows.

Friday September 4^th @ 7.35pm

St. George Illawarra vs. Parramatta Eels

It is my belief that this will be a very close match. The dragons have not been in the best of form lately and the Parramatta Eels could most certainly use the win. With the NRL finals so close both teams will be giving it their all.

My Prediction – St. George Illawarra by less than 12.5 points with odds of $2.90 @ BetFair

Friday September 4^th @ 7.35pm

West Tigers vs. Bulldogs

The Bulldogs shouldn’t have too much trouble here, but the West Tigers will be fighting hard. With the Tigers having an outside chance of making the finals it could turn into a thriller of a match.

My Tip – Bulldogs by less than 12.5 points with odds of $2.40 @ BetFair

Saturday September 5^th @ 7.30pm

Manly Sea Eagles vs. Gold Coast Titans

The Manley Sea Eagles will be playing for a top 4 finish here as they currently sit in 5^th place on the NRL ladder. The Gold Coast Titans can’t fall below third place will only really need to find some nice form for the finals. It should be a close match-up.

My Tip –Manley Sea Eagles by less than 12.5 points with odds of $2.20 @ BetFair

Saturday September 5^th @ 7.30pm

Cronulla Sharks vs. South Sydney

Both teams have nothing to lose here. However, the Sharks may end up with the wooden spoon if they don’t take the points. South Sydney’s season is already over with no chance of making the NRL finals.

My Tip – South Sydney with odds of $1.54 @ BetFair

Saturday September 5^th @ 7.30pm

New Zealand Warriors vs. Melbourne Storm

The Melbourne Storm should be able to run all over the Warriors in this round 26 match. The Warriors are sitting pretty way down in 14^th place while the Melbourne Storm will be playing to hold their top 4 position.

My Tip – Melbourne Storm with odds of $1.42 @ BetFair

Sunday September 6^th @ 2pm

Sydney Roosters vs. North Queensland Cowboys

Similar to the Rabbitohs vs. Sharks game, this one probably won’t be very interesting. The Roosters will be trying to take the win to avoid the wooden spoon however and could be worth watching.

My Tip – North Queensland Cowboys by less than 12.5 points with odds of $2.20 @ BetFair

Sunday September 6^th @ 3pm

Newcastle Knights vs. Penrith Panthers

This will be the match of the round in my opinion. With the two teams sitting in 8^th & 9^th respectively, the loser of this clash will not play finals. Although it is my feeling that the Knights will get up in the end, it should be a very close match.

My Tip – Newcastle Knights with odds of $1.59 @ BetFair

Sunday September 6^th @ 7pm

Canberra Raiders vs. Brisbane Broncos

While the Raiders are sitting down in 13^th place with no chance of a finals birth, Brisbane will be playing for a shot at the top 4. Currently in sixth place, they are only one point behind 4^th placed Melbourne Storm and will be giving it their all to take this top 4 place from them.

My Tip – Brisbane Broncos with odds of $1.34 @ BetFair

The Bulldogs are currently paying $1.22 for the regular season win which is almost a sure fire bet and they are also tipped to take home the NRL Premiership with odds of $4.90. St. George Illawarra has odds of $5.10 for the NRL Premiership.

My tip for the 2009 NRL Wooden Spoon is the Sydney Roosters paying $1.26. Cronulla is paying odds of $3.30.

BetFair also has many other options for betting on the NRL and you should head along now, set-up your account and prepare to win some money before the end of the 2009 NRL season.

Update: See the 2010 Round 22 tips here

The last week of the Home and Away season and Round 22 holds many very important games that will change the way we look at some teams going into the AFL finals. The biggest of all will be the Collingwood V Western Bulldogs game. The winner can secure 3rd position on the ladder and have the opportunity of playing the out of form Geelong first up in the finals.

Another huge game will be Hawthorn V Essendon. The winner of this match takes the final spot of the top 8 and sends the loser packing.

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For more free bet offers and promo codes from other bookies checkout www.BetForFree.com.au

West Coast V Richmond Friday Night at Subiaco Oval

Tip: West Coast

The Eagles have been in good form in the last couple of weeks (except for the belting the faced at AAMI stadium last weekend) winning 3 of their last 4 games. They will finish the season on a good note in front of their home ground. Lets hope Ben Cousins doesn’t decide to stay in WA for the weekend and meet up with a few of his “old” mates now that Richmond’s season will be over.

Take West Coast between 1-39 points with odds of 2.50 at IASbet

Geelong V Fremantle Saturday at Skilled Stadium

Tip: Geelong

The Cats will be pleased that they have one of the easiest tasks in football playing Freo at Skilled Stadium. They desperately need a good win to halt the free-fall they have suffered in recent weeks. Tom Harley, Steve Johnson (50/50) and James Kelly are set to come back along with Brad Ottens who stared in the VFL last week.

The Cats will win on Saturday its just a matter of by how much. My prediction is about 45 points that will see them back up and going as they start their finals campaign.

I’m tipping the Cats here by over 40 points at 1.45 with IASbet.

Hawthorn V Essendon Saturday at the MCG

Tip: Essendon

The atmosphere at this game will be huge but with no Buddy there’s no Hawks. Both teams are desperate to play finals footy, they will be going hard at the ball playing like it will be their last. Mark McVeigh knows it may be his final AFL game after announcing his retirement earlier this month so expect a best on ground performance from him this weekend.

A winning result here will depend alot on Essendons final team for the Saturday game. Matthew Lloyd and Paddy Ryder are both a chance to play the blockbuster clash for Essendon.

Max Bailey has been a welcome inclusion in the ruck with 23 hit outs last week for the Hawks. He has been sidelined for two years with successive knee reconstructions and will be one to watch especially if Paddy Rider is out of the Essendon team.

Even though Essendon have the shorter break and the WA return trip I think they will have enough to snatch the victory in a close one.

Go Essendon for the straight win here at around 1.95

Carlton V Adelaide Saturday Night at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Adelaide

Although Rob Shirley and Nathan Bock have been ruled out of this home final deciding match Adelaide’s Brett Burton is likely to take the field. I think they have enough depth in the team which should be enough to see them over the line.

Adelaide also have the added bonus of a club ban given to Blues players Eddie Betts, Cameron Cloke and Jeff Garlett after they were late to a training session on the weekend.

IASbet have Carlton as 1.70 favourites to the Crows 2.15 but the Blues inexperience will show on the weekend and the classy Adelaide midfield should get the points.

Jason Porplyzia will be the key to the match after a 6 goal effort last weekend, he has been in fine form of late and should do well at Etihad on Saturday.

With odds of 6.50 at IASbet the Blues/Crows Halftime/Fulltime bet looks good value here.

Sydney V Brisbane  Friday Saturday at the SCG

Tip: Brisbane

A win here will see Brisbane host a home final next week so they will be out to get a comfortable win at the SCG. That being said the Lions are still looking at the big picture not risking backman Daniel Merrett and goal kicking Daniel Bradshaw this weekend to make sure they are 100% for the finals.

I’d expect Michael Rischitelli to play more time up forward along with Brown after his 3 goals in last weekends massive comeback over Port.  I think they have enough talent to kick a winning score.

Take Brisbane for the straight win at 2.05

Port Adelaide V North Melbourne Saturday Night at AAMI Stadium

Tip: Port Adelaide

Port will be out to end the season on a high in what could be club star Peter Burgoyne final match. They suffered a shocking loss last weekend after a 10 goal first quarter all but kicking them out of finals contention. Power needs the Hawks to have a narrow win over Essendon (which is possible) but then they need to thrash North 100+ points to scrape into the 8. Stranger things have happened but it’s a very tough ask.

In front of their home ground I expect Port to have a win.

Take Port by under 39 points at 2.20.

Melbourne V St Kilda  Sunday at the MCG

Tip: St Kilda

St Kilda need to get their game back on track or an early exit from the finals could be on the cards. Its the Saints 1st game this year on the MCG so I expect they will bring in a full team to take as much out of the game as possible.

Luke Ball played a best on ground performance in the VFL last week and is expected to be picked for the team. Lenny Hayes is also expect to make a return to the side after a minor injury ruled him out prematch and although the Saints have been playing down Nick Riewoldt’s knee injury I wouldn’t be surprised if he is a late withdrawal from the game to make sure he is fit for the finals.

Max Hudghton is also right to rejoin the backline after false speculation his hamstring was re-injured in the VFL last weekend.

St Kilda by 40+ points with odds of 1.40 at IASbet is a good bet and although short I think its worth taking.

Collingwood V Western Bulldogs Sunday Afternoon at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Collingwood

One of the games of the round which will show what form both teams are going into the finals with. A win here will give the winning team a alot of confidence going into next week that they are a genuine chance for the flag. A loss will be costly for both teams, so both will be treating it as the start of the finals.

I think the Pies will win here, they have the combination of height (Josh Fraser), class (Dane Swan) and speed (Leon Davis) will see the Bulldogs struggle to keep the football.

I think there value for the Pies here. IASbet have set the odds at 1.73 for them win.

See the 2010 Round 21 tips here

Round 21 becomes crunch time for the teams trying to secure a place in the finals. The one that becomes most important is the Freo V Essendon game. If the Bombers get the win in the West they will have all but secured the 8th spot. This will knock out all hope of the Hawks, and Sydney scraping in and makes it very tough for Port to make the finals.

The game of the round is the Friday Night Football blockbuster with the Dogs V Cats at Etihad Stadium. This game will show how both teams will be heading into their finals series as they try and build some momentum going into September.

For the latest footy previews and sports betting infomation join our free newsletter today.

Western Bulldogs V Geelong Friday Night at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Geelong

With only 2 games to go until the finals both teams need to start getting into top form to avoid an early exit in September.

The Bulldogs need to win at least one of the remaining two games (Pies next week) to secure 4th position so will be desperate to get a win here. Their injury worries continue with Ryan Griffen and defender Tom Williams declared they will miss the rest of the home and away season.

Geelong is still yet to show their unbeatable form they had at the start of the season so it will be interesting to see how they preform. I think they will step things up this weekend and comfortably beat the Dogs.

Take Geelong by under 40 with odds of $2.30 at Sportsbet

Carlton V Melbourne Saturday at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Carlton

The Blues have a good chance to get a top 4 spot on the ladder if they win the remaining two games so will be out to make a statement against Melbourne on Saturday.

Melbourne now sitting on four win for the season wont be too eager to get another win and loose the priority draft pick. On the other hand if Melbourne finish the season with only 4 win they become the worst team in the AFL since Fitzroy in the early 90′s and we all know what happened to them.

After the thumping they gave Freo last weekend the Demons now have a better percentage than Freo who are 15th on the ladder.

The Blues will get the win here its just a matter of how much.

I like Carlton to win between 40 and 59 points paying $4.15

Adelaide V West Coast Saturday at AAMI Stadium

Tip: Adelaide

The Crows will dominate the up and coming Eagles at AAMI stadium this weekend with both Patrick Dangerfield and David Mackay expected to play. Adelaide still have a few injury worries with Nathan Bock and Brett Burton unlikely to be right for the match but have enough depth to cover for them.

Crows by 40 points.

Take the Crows to be leading at evey quarter with odds of $1.47 at Sportsbet

Brisbane V Port Adelaide Saturday Night at the Gabba

Tip: Brisbane

An interesting game here with the final chance for Port to scrape into the 8 depending on the result of the Essendon game later in the weekend.

With Brisbane’s position pretty much set in stone it gives Port a good chance to snatch a win if they can overcome their bad form on the road. Live wire forward Daniel Motlop is a good chance to return to the Port side after recovering from a fractured ankle he suffered in round 12 this year.

I think it will be an even game going into the last quarter but think the Lions will be able to kick a winning score in the end.

Brisbane by under 40 points is a good bet here at $2.37

Richmond V Hawthorn Saturday Night at the MCG

Tip: Hawthorn

Hope is not gone for the Hawks to play finals this year but it is the hands of the Football Gods as they need other results to go their way. If by chance they are still a chance after this round they will be playing Essendon in round 22 for a potential spot in the 8.

This is what the Hawks will be basing their game and should break their winning drought this weekend. Richmond have gone back to their hopeless ways after a very disappointing game last week and will miss Jake King and Tom Hislop after being suspended as a result of the melee with the Pies.

The Hawks are paying $3.15 to win by over 40 points, the way the Tigers are playing I think the Hawks have a good shot of getting there too.

St Kilda V North Melbourne Sunday at Etihad Stadium

Tip: St Kilda

Momentum is a key factor going into September and St Kilda will be keen to get a comfortable win over the Kangaroos in round twenty one. If the Saints don’t win easily serious questions will be asked and massive doubt will cloud over them.

Now that the Saints have the apparent “the loss they had to have” I think they will bounce back firmly and get the points here.

My prediction is the Saints by 35 points so take the under 40 points bet at $2.80

Collingwood V Sydney Sunday at the MCG

Tip: Collingwood

This could end up being a very interesting game. Can the Swans de-rail the flying Pies? Sydney have beaten the Saints and just gone down to 2nd placed Geelong by 5 points, can they now knock off the 3rd spot?

It will be a massive effort for Sydney to win at the MCG which would give their finals hopes a boost going into the final round.

The key to the game will be the return of Josh Fraser to the Pies side. It will make it and even tougher task for the Swans one that will be too great for them in the end.

I like the odds of $2.20 with Sydney to win with a 24.5 point headstart at Sportsbet

Fremantle V Essendon at Subiaco Stadium

Tip: Essendon

Last weeks stars Paddy Ryder and lightning Courtenay Dempsey will both miss this match due to injuries they suffered in the 2 point win against the league leaders St Kilda last week. They were superb on Sunday and at time ran rings around the Saints. They will be expected to play the same football against the hapless Freo. The bookies have gone in cautious with this game with both teams paying $1.90

The Dockers will be trying to get a win for Luke McPharlin’s 150th game but will fall way short to the target Essendon will reach.

Take Essendon for the straight win at $1.90

Round 18 is upon us and brings some important games for teams in search of a top 8 spot come finals time. The Collingwood V Brisbane match is the game of the round with both teams level pegging on the ladder with 11 wins and 6 losses. It will be a huge test for both teams and the winner will likely take a top 4 spot by the end of the weekend.

Sports Bet of the Round

Congratulations to everyone that jumped on last weeks $5.00 multi bet. It was touch and go with a few of the games but we pulled through.

My round eighteen tip is Carlton, Richmond, Geelong, Essendon and Collingwood in a multi. It will pay around $4.00 with Sportsbet who will also give you a $50 free bet just for joining them through Sportsbet Blog.

North Melbourne V Carlton Friday Night at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Carlton

Carlton will be desperate to get their game back on track after a dismal performance last Friday night against the Pies. Chris Judd is their only real shining light at the moment and looks set to be a top 3 chance for the Brownlow Medal and is paying $5.00 at Sportsbet.

With club great Adam Simpson announcing his retirement after this weekends match it may add some spark to the Kangaroos side making for a close game. But there’s no doubt that the Blues have a far stronger side and will bounce back and get a win here.

My prediction is 40+ points.

Western Bulldogs V Fremantle Saturday at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Western Bulldogs

The Dogs will be out to get back on the winners list after a heavy loss to the league leaders St Kilda. Freo have trouble playing in Melbourne and will struggle with the pace of the Bulldogs.

Brad Johnson will be the man of the moment when he lines up on Saturday to play a Bulldogs record breaking 342 game for the club. Interesting enough the Bulldogs are letting every child who is accompanied by a paying adult to enter free for this match, which should see a nice sized crowd to the game.

Geelong V Adelaide Saturday at Skilled Stadium

Tip: Geelong

Geelong again need to prove to their supporters they have what it takes to win the Premiership this year. They looked far from impressive in their 1 point win over the Hawks after the siren and need to clean up their skills if they are to get back to their usual form.

Adelaide continue to impress and would be confident coming down to Skilled Stadium this weekend. But Geelong at home are a unstoppable force and should wrap the game up early.

If your looking at betting on Geelong to win the Grand Final now is a good time as I think the odds wont get any longer than they are now. Currently they are paying $2.55 and are close favourites to St Kilda at $2.60. IASbet have a great promo at the moment that will give you a $100 free bet on heaps of events including the Grand Final when making $50 worth of bets.

Sydney V St Kilda Saturday Night at the SCG

Tip: St Kilda

The Saints are on the road to the finals now with the final 5 games being all teams that are out of the eight. Those that took up my St Kilda tip last week will be rubbing their hands together after the odds dropped from $3.15 to $1.85 for the Saints to go undefeated after the win against the Bulldogs. Their perfect run will continue up in Sydney and I’m tipping it will end any chance of the Swans getting to the finals.

As usual Nick Riewoldt and Stephen Milne will be the ones to watch after both kicking 5 goals last weekend.

Collingwood V Brisbane Saturday Night at the MCG

Tip: Collingwood

The Pies are on top of the world with the signing of Nathan Buckley this week and a big win over arch rivals Carlton last weekend. This will spur the Pies on this weekend and should get the points.

The match up against the Lions will still be great with Jonathan Brown showing he can play a one man forward with a massive eight goals last week in their 41 point win. After that effort he is now clear favourite to win the Coleman Medal with Sportsbet and is paying $2.25.

Tim Notting will be missed at the Lions with one week on the sidelines after a high hit on the Kangaroos Scott Thompson.

Melbourne V Richmond Sunday at the MCG

Tip: Richmond

Both teams are playing for pride but have shown some signs of success in the last month or so. Richmond have pleased their supporters will some hard pressure football that has resulted in a nail biting draw and a great win against Essendon.

Jade Rawlings looks to be getting somewhere with the list and has sparked up the team to give all they have. This should see them to a win over an inaccurate kicking Daemons side.

Port Adelaide V Hawthorn Sunday at AAMI Stadium

Tip: Hawthorn

The Hawks are back and this game will show they mean business. They are playing with allot of flair which saw them win the Premiership last year and if they can continue this they may just scrape into the top 8 come the end of the year.

Buddy looks to have his confidence back and playing great footy with goals from all over the ground. His presence on the field is enough to spur the team on which should see them onto a big win at AAMI Stadium.

West Coast V Essendon Sunday at Subiaco

Tip: Essendon

This is a must win game for Essendon to keep their finals chances alive. They seemed to be off their usual game last week losing in a nail biter but should bounce back over in the West.

The Dons will be do it tough though up forward with goal kicker Matthew Lloyd to miss the game with a badly bruised heel.

See the 2010 Round 17 Tips Here

A massive rivalry round of football with some important top eight clashes and a couple of local derbies to add to the mix. To name a game of the round would be too hard with so many blockbuster games on but I think the St Kilda V Western Bulldogs game also the classic Carlton V Collingwood clash on Friday night could prove to be the most exciting games of the round.

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Sports Bet of the Round

Last weeks four leg multi bet of the round just scraped in with the Richmond drawn game which halved the winnings but at least we still got to collect.

This weeks bet of the round is Geelong, Sydney, Freo and Adelaide also in a multi bet. There’s plenty of value here and will pay around $5.00 at Canbet who will also give you a $40 free bet just for using the promotional code 2040BFF when signing up and making $20 worth of bets with them. Check out the latest odds here.

Carlton V Collingwood Friday Night at the MCG

Tip: Collingwood

The Pies are coming off a shock loss to the Hawks last weekend and they will be out to win as they can’t afford another loss this time of the season.

The end result will depend on another great game from Dane Swan as he continues the best form of his career. Swan is fast becoming Gary Ablett’s toughest opposition for the Brownlow with another 35+ possession game last week. The Pies by 30 points.

Geelong V Hawthorn Saturday at the MCG

Tip: Geelong

What a time for the Grand Final rematch. The Hawks supporters believe they are back on track and this game will truly show if they have even a little of their form back from last year.

The Cats will be out to embarrass Hawthorn and keep the Hawks chances of a top eight spot slim after the unexpected Grand Final loss last year. My prediction is this will be the case with a 30+ points win.

Fremantle V West Coast Saturday at Subiaco

Tip: Fremantle

This game is the “tanking” match of the round. West Coast can’t afford to win another game and loose the chance of a priority draft pick. Freo on the other hand have 3 wins so can get another victory while being under the 5 game cut off for the extra pick.

So looking at this I’m tipping Freo and the bookies agree with Sportsbet pricing Freo at $1.70 ahead of the Eagles $2.20. Get a $50 free bet with Sportsbet just for signing up with them through Sportsbet Blog, check their site out to join and for the latest odds.

Brisbane V North Melbourne Saturday Night at the Gabba

Tip: Brisbane

Depending on other games, the Lions could see themselves in the top four after round 17 is complete. They will see this game as an opportunity for a much needed percentage booster with a few tough games on the road ahead.

It will be a tough ask without Daniel Bradshaw and Jared Brennan both out for around three weeks but they have a fair bit of depth that should see them through at least this game.

St Kilda V Western Bulldogs Saturday Night at Etihad Stadium

Tip: St Kilda

A massive test for both clubs. St Kilda will be without forward Justin Koschitzke and Zac Dawson with both being pulled up by the tribunal. This will force the Saints to change things up a bit which could cause some headaches for Ross Lyon. It could be a blessing in disguise for the Saints with a near unchanged side this year.

I think they have enough belief in their game that should see them home but not without a fright from the Dogs. The Bulldogs have shown that they have alot of spirit with a fight back last weekend after trailing most of the first half.

Melbourne V Sydney Sunday at Manuka Oval

Tip: Sydney

Both teams are coming off heavy losses and both out of contention for the finals. Swans defender Ted Richards is an obvious omission for the game in Darwin after suffering from a punctured lung, broken ribs and internal chest bleeding in last weeks game against Carlton.

Jesse White is a shining light for the Swans, there has already been talk of him to taking Barry Hall’s position now that he has retired. He will be out to make his mark in the game after last weekends four goals and 12 kicks in his best game since joining the AFL.

Essendon V Richmond Sunday at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Essendon

This is a must win game for Essendon for a chance to play in the finals this year. They currently sit 8 on the ladder with 8 wins and 8 losses along with Port and the Hawks.

Angus Monfries will be a key inclusion up forward for the Bombers after recovering a hamstring injury.

The Bombers should get a comfortable win by around 24 points to continue the Tigers disappointing year.

Adelaide V Port Adelaide Sunday at AAMI Stadium

Tip: Adelaide

The Crows will be desperate to get their confidence back up after a disappointing effort against the Saints last week. They play AAMI stadium well and have the man power to get over Port.

Showdown XXVII will see the return of Nathan van Berlo and Rob Shirley which are are missive inclusions for Adelaide and Patrick Dangerfield is also expected to play after a heavy knock to the head last weekend.

Were starting to come into the business end of the home and away season and there are a few important games in round sixteen that could shape the top 4 at the end of the season. The St Kilda V Adelaide game will be a big test for both teams, a win for Adelaide will secure a top four position. The Collingwood V Hawks will be an interesting one as well. Can the Hawks keep the winning feeling going at the MCG or will the Pies finish all what is left for the Hawks to make the finals this year?

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Sports Bet of the Round

This weeks bet of the round is Richmond, Port Adelaide, Brisbane and St Kilda in a multi bet. It will pay around $4.00 at Canbet who will also give you a $40 free bet just for using the promotional code 2040BFF when signing up and making $20 worth of bets with them. Check out the latest odds here.

Essendon V Western Bulldogs Friday Night at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Western Bulldogs

Another super night of Friday night footy in which should be a goal bonanza. Both teams are capable of quickly running the ball straight into the attack and both are even quicker at getting the ball down the other end after a turnover. Fingers crossed this game is similar to last weekends 1 point margin which saw the Dogs just fall short of the win. The Dogs have beaten the Bombers in their last five clashes which in the end should be the case here to. They are a more solid and skilful team that has set its targets for a top four finish to the season.

Carlton V Sydney Saturday at the MCG

Tip: Carlton

The Blues are clear favourites with Sportsbet at $1.27 with Sydney out to as much as $3.85 with some bookies. Carlton’s only multiple goal scorer last week Brendon Fevola will be a headache for the Swans backline after he kicked nine goals in what was a near perfect day for the big man. More than half of his total possessions resulted in goals in that game so we don’t blame the bookies for having the Blues priced so short! The usual names will once again shine this weekend for the Blues, Andrew Carrazzo, Bryce Gibbs and Chris Judd (who is in Brownlow winning form) will all see Carlton over the line.

Geelong V Melbourne Saturday at Skilled Stadium

Tip: Geelong

The rumours of the Cats deliberately dropping their star players (tanking) last week have deepened with the return of most likely all of them for the weeks game in Geelong. Brownlow medal favourite Garry Ablett, Matthew Scarlett, Andrew Mackie and Travis Varcoe are all certain starters. Cameron Ling and Darren Milburn and still 50/50 but are expected to play. This all being said the Cats will end Melbourne’s chances of a three game winning streak, not that they want to win to many more games as they would miss out on the chance of a extra draft pick if they win a couple more games.

Fremantle V Brisbane Saturday Night at Subiaco

Tip: Brisbane

Freo now sit firmly on the bottom of the ladder with no signs of a recovery. The Dockers football manager Chris Bond has said they will continue their youth policy even after the record breaking 117 point loss to Adelaide last week which included only 1 Freo goal. This will delight Lions coach Michael Voss with now two weeks in a row where a team has selected youth over a strong side and he should get a rare win over in the West. Jed Adcock will missed in backline for the Lions after a season ending knee injury last week.

Collingwood V Hawthorn Saturday Night at the MCG

Tip: Collingwood

The Pies are in flying form at the moment with majority of their guns firing. They may be a little sore going into this match after the blockbuster 1 point win against the Dogs last week but they should be able to get over the line. Collingwood have had an extra 2 day break over the Hawks who played at a rain soaked Tasmania on Sunday which would have taken everything out of them. A loss here for the Hawk will be season ending making it to near impossible to make the top 8. The massive pressure for them to get a win against a classy Pies unit will break them. My prediction is the Pies by 30 points.

Port Adelaide V West Coast Sunday at AAMI Stadium

Tip: Port Adelaide

After a dismal performance against the bottom of the ladder Melbourne last week Port will be looking to bounce back with a win at AAMI stadium. They have have a punishing week on the track including a 6am beach session on the Monday after the loss which should spark them up for the round sixteen clash. Matt Thomas and Travis Boak are set to return to the Power side that should be a massive help for them in the midfield. Both Cox and Kerr will miss the next 2-3 weeks for the Eagles with groin injuries.

Richmond V North Melbourne Sunday at the MCG

Tip: Richmond

The bookies are on the fence about this one with Sportsbet giving both teams an even $1.90 chance to win. Any wonder, both clubs are in disarray with no finals hopes and both have no official coach. I think the telling tail will be if Ben Cousins can reproduce his efforts in last weeks game. He showed signs of his former self with a season high 35 possessions. It’s also Brett Deledio’s 100th game which will give the Tigers some lift.

St Kilda V Adelaide Sunday at Etihad Stadium

Tip: St Kilda

The Saints looked flat for the first three quarters over in the West last week but turned it on in the last bringing back their regular brilliance. I expect this to continue into this game in what could be a defining match against the Crows. Adelaide are in great form and they would believe they can knock off the unbeaten Saints and secure a top 4 position. The Saints should win although the Crows have much more to play for. St Kilda may be starting to take the foot off the pedal a little, now that they have the top spot nearly secured.

This weeks game of the round is Friday nights Bulldogs V Collingwood game which should be a great game to watch even for the neutral supporter. Another interesting game will be the Geelong against the Lions at the Gabba. Can Geelong keep their heads up even without some of their big names?

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Sports Bet of the Round

This weeks bet of the round is in a Carlton, Hawthorn and the Bulldogs in a multi bet. It will pay around $3.10 at Sportsbet who will also give you a $50 free bet on this weeks tip just for signing up with them.

Western Bulldogs V Collingwood Friday Night at Etihad Stadium

Tip: Western Bulldogs

Another Friday night football blockbuster that should see Etihad stadium full again. Surprisingly the Bulldogs have only beaten one top eight side this year so they will be out to prove that they are a genuine contender for the premiership. Collingwood will be out to do the same after only beating two teams in the top 8. Brad Johnson and Adam Cooney are in fine form for the Doggies and will be the key to winning the match.

If the Bulldogs play with their usual flare they will be too hard to stop and should win comfortably by around 30 points.

Sydney V Essendon Saturday at the SCG

Tip: Essendon

Jobe Watson and Mark McVeigh are expected to return for the big game in Sydney this weekend. They will be needed inclusions in what was a disappointing performance last week against the pies. The Swans are locking down the hatches to weather the storm after two of the teams greats Barry Hall and Micheal O’Loughlin left the team which will effect how they play the game. Sydney will try put up a fight but will run out of legs come the end of the game. The Dons by 24 points.

Carlton V Richmond Saturday at the MCG

Tip: Carlton

Carlton will get the points here over a unorganised Tigers side. The Blues showed they can play under pressure with a good come back performance last week against Freo getting their season back on track. Expect to see some good form from Fev as we start to get closer to the finals, he will need to step up and return to last years form if they want a chance of a top 4 position and a decent chance at a grand final birth.

Brisbane V Geelong Saturday Night at the Gabba

Tip: Geelong

The Cats have had a horrible seven days with their first loss to the season and a number of injuries that if not managed properly could shape the rest of the season. Darren Milburn, Harry Taylor, David Wojcinski, Cameron Ling and Steve Johnson will all be tested before the teams list is finalised. Brad Ottens injury is taking longer than first thought and will miss another 3 weeks or so. But that being said they still have the depth to be a near unstoppable team. Even though they are playing at the Gabba which Brisbane play well at, the Cats should have a easy win.

Gary Abletts looks to be on track to winning the Brownlow Medal this year with the odds getting shorter and shorter as the rounds go by. Its may be the right time to get a bet on with his price to win at $2.10 with IASbet.

Adelaide V Fremantle Saturday Night at AAMI Stadium

Tip: Adelaide

The Crows are likely to continue their five game winning streak against Freo this weekend. They are playing great footy at the moment and look to be peaking at the right time of the season. Brett Burton will be a massive inclusion and has put his hand up for selection with the Crows after nearly 12 months out of the game due to a knee reconstruction.

Matthew Pavlich is a 50/50 to make the Freo side which would be very costly if he cant recover from a calf injury in time for the game.

My prediction is the Crows by around 28 points.

Hawthorn V North Melbourne Sunday at Aurora Stadium

Tip: Hawthorn

I’m giving the Hawks one more chance to show what they are capable of. If they loose this one they might as well pack up shop and start playing the kids because they have a hellish run home with games against the Saints and Geelong to play in coming weeks. If Sam Mitchell doesn’t want another beer tipped over him again they better put on a better performance than last week for their record number of members. I think the loss may spark them into gear knowing now that there are alot of people looking at their results with interest. IASbet also think the Hawks will win and have set them at $1.51 to win.

You get a $100 free bet when betting only $50 at IASbet when using the promo code BFF100 on the signup page, this might be a good game to get a few dollars on Buddy Franklin to kick the first goal. Check out the latest odds here.

Melbourne V Port Adelaide Sunday at the MCG

Tip: Port Adelaide

Port will be desperate to keep in contention with the top 8 this weekend against a reinvigorated Demons side. Chad Cornes is a massive inclusion for the Power and will be sure to make his mark on the game.

The Melbourne forward line will need to be reshuffled after Colin Sylvia accepted a 3 week ban for striking West Coast’s Scott Selwood last weekend. This will be very costly for them and they will struggle to string 2 wins together on Sunday.

Port Adelaide by 30 points.

West Coast V St Kilda Sunday at Subiaco

Tip: St Kilda

Last week I dared to tip against my team the Saints and they come up with the good with what’s been called the greatest game of all time. It will be the last time I do that. St Kilda has still got the pressure that they showed early on in the season which has started to drop off a little until last week. They looked unstoppable and West Coast’s coach John Worsfold will find it very hard to find match ups all around the ground, especialy now that Dean Cox and Daniel Kerr look doutful for the game due to injury.

You might think that the Saints will blow the game out early but the Eagles caused one of the upsets of the year when they played last year in Perth easily accounting for the Saints. So if your looking to bet on this one I think Saints by under 39 would be a safe bet.