Collingwood v Port Adelaide Preview, Marvel Stadium

After a bye last week, this is a giant test for Collingwood to see if the reigning premiers can return to something near their 2023 form. The Magpies were ferocious in taming the Brisbane Lions at Easter, then fell over the line against winless Hawthorn during Gather Round. Collingwood’s recent record against the Port is excellent, including a thumping win at the MCG in round two last year. But the Power appear to have fixed up holes in their defence this year which cost them dearly in a straight-sets finals exit last season. Port’s midfield of Connor Rozee, Zak Butters and Jason Horne-Francis will push Collingwood all the way in what shapes as one of the games of the season.

TIP: Collingwood by 2 points, Darcy Moore to return to his best in defence

Walking into this blockbuster at Marvel/MGC Stadium, there’s more than just pride on the line. After suffering a 52-point hammering at GWS, Collingwood will be desperate to make amends in front of their home crowd. Meanwhile, Port Adelaide’s season opener went horribly wrong beaten by 91 points – raising serious questions.

In past showdowns, Collingwood have held the upper hand under McRae, and Port haven’t broken through in their recent meetings. Expect the Magpies to try and assert early midfield control, forcing the Power to find consistency under pressure.

For those seeking AFL Betting Tips, the smart angle here could be backing Collingwood to cover a moderate line, or perhaps a lower total points scenario if Port tighten up defensively. Among AFL Tips, the safer ground is a Collingwood win, but the margin could be tighter than many expect. In any AFL Prediction, this feels like a bounce-back night for the home side though Port may surprise if they find cohesion early.