AFL TIPS: Essendon v Carlton

Thursday, August 21 – 7.30 PM AEST – Venue: MCG

Here are our AFL tips for Essendon v Carlton – including our best bet, player prop, and Same Game Multi, with odds brought to you by BetBetBet.

Carlton and Essendon will be playing for pride and for their fans. Both have had seasons to forget. The Bombers were much better against the Saints and could have won that game. The Blues had an excellent win over the Power and if they bring their best for the whole game again this week, they are set to notch up their ninth win of the season.  

Zach Merrett will return to the side after missing last week with a hand injury. In his absence, Redman 36 disposals, 796 metres gained, McGrath 35 disposals and 9 score involvements and Durham 28 disposals and 8 score involvements led the way for the young Bombers. Dylan Shiel is also available after suspension.

Zak Johnson, Kayle Gerreyn, a first year forward/ruck who has been in good form in defence in the VFL and who is the only player left on the list yet to play an AFL game, and Alwyn Davey Jnr were busy at VFL level and may get their opportunity at AFL level this week. If not for this game, then perhaps for the final game against the Suns on Wednesday night.  

Sam Walsh 28 disposals at 82% efficiency, 5 clearances and 9 score involvements, is back to his best after missing most of the season with injuries. He was the link between the inside and the outside with his run and excellent delivery. Harry McKay provided a focal point up forward kicking seven goals and having 15 score involvements. George Hewitt 35 disposals and 11 clearances, Patrick Cripps 22 disposals and 2 goals, Tom DeKoning and Frankie Evans all played well again and kept the Power under pressure. They will need to be at their best again to ensure another win over the Bombers. TDK will be playing his last game in navy Blue, before he heads to the Saints for the big pay cheque.

Cooper Lord will miss due to concussion and Lachie Fogarty is out with an ankle injury, which could create an opening for Elijah Hollands and Jordan Boyd to return to the senior team. Harry Charleson had 24 touches in the VFL and could come in for his AFL debut.

Hopefully we get a great contest and a free flowing game with plenty of goals. Blues by 37 points

The rivalry between Essendon and Carlton never fails to deliver, and this season adds another layer of excitement. Essendon’s midfield has been applying real pressure in recent games, keeping them competitive against some tough opponents. On the other hand, Carlton’s forwards have shown they can create scoring chances when it matters. Looking back at past encounters, these two sides often produce close contests, which keeps fans guessing. When thinking about AFL Betting Tips, it helps to look at form, key injuries, and past meetings. AFL Tips and AFL Predictions usually highlight how momentum can swing games like this either way.