Collingwood Magpies v Greater Western Sydney Giants (Friday Night)
When Collingwood made it through to the preliminary final on the back of beating Melbourne two weeks ago they looked to have one hand on the premiership cup. They were on the easier side of the draw or so we thought. Enter the Giants. They just continue to get better. They were strong winners over St Kilda in week 1 of the finals before a completely and utterly dominant display against the Power last week. If they had of kicked straight the margin could have been anything at half time. They face a tougher test here it must be said. The Pies will be fresh after a weeks rest and pumped up in front of 80,000 Pies supporters at the G. Oh and they get a young super star called Nick Daicos back from injury.
The way I am looking to play this is a small bet on the Giants to win the Premiership. They have 2017 Western Bulldogs vibes (the year the Bulldogs won it from outside the top 4). It won’t be easy to get past Collingwood this week but I give them a good chance and if they can they will be a huge show against either Brisbane or Carlton in Melbourne the following week to win what would be the most unlikely of premierships.
Brisbane Lions v Carlton Blues (Saturday Night)
The Gabba will host the second of the preliminary finals on Saturday afternoon.
I’m still perplexed as to how Carlton managed to beat Melbourne last Friday night. Carlton were well and truely out played but Melbourne failed to convert and Carlton took advantage. Walsh was epic for the Blues as was Cripps who unfortunately looks banged up along with a few other of the Carlton players ahead of the biggest game of their lives.
Brisbane on the other hand should be fresh and ready to progress to their first grand final under coach Chris Fagan. They are a beast at the Gabba and I think there is every chance they completely expose Carlton with leg speed on Saturday night.
Backing the Lions at the line.
Staking Plan |
- .8 Unit GSW to win Premiership @ $5.50 (TAB)
- 1.6 Units Brisbane Line (-18.5) @ $1.90 (Sportsbet)