Port Adelaide’s resurgence was temporarily halted last week by the experience of Geelong, however the Power will be confident in returning to winning ways against Essendon this week.
For the Bombers, it’s about giving the fans some hope after consecutive thumpings at the hands of Sydney and Richmond.
Remember, Before You Bet will be previewing every game of the 2022 AFL season, so be sure to check out our AFL Tips page for regular updates.
Port Adelaide vs Essendon Betting Tips
Adelaide Oval, Sunday 29th May, 4.40pm (AEST)
Port Adelaide
Injuries: Orazio Fantasia, Scott Lycett, Trent McKenzie, Jake Pasini, Josh Sinn, Sam Skinner
Big Charlie Dixon returns this week after a lengthy layoff, bringing a presence and fierceness to the side that has been lacking.
It’s hard to get a read on Port Adelaide at this stage of the season. After five straight losses to open the campaign the Power pulled off a few hard fought wins to even the ledger heading towards the halfway point of the year. So, which Power do we believe in? It’s clear that Port aren’t quite in control of their game style and mentality yet, however there has been enough in the last few weeks to suggest that they can push for a spot in the eight yet again this year. The return of Charlie Dixon is huge, and should provide Port with the boost they need to mount that finals attack.
Essendon
Injuries: Matt Guelfi (out), Nik Cox, Michael Hurley, Kyle Langford, Dylan Shiel, Will Snelling, James Stewart, Jake Stringer, Patrick Voss
Essendon just can’t seem to get their Best 22 on the field, which is a shame for fans and neutrals alike.
2022 has been a sad, sad year for Essendon so far, and there are few signs that a turnaround is imminent. The Bombers have been sadly beaten in their last two matches after a rousing victory against Hawthorn, proving that they don’t have the experience or firepower to go on a winning run. It’s clear what they lack when you read out the names of missing stars – Jake Stringer, Kyle Langford, Will Snelling. This clash will be a massive challenge, especially since it is scheduled to be played at the pressure cooker that is the Adelaide Oval.
Match Prediction
It all points to a Port Adelaide win here.
The Power have won their last three matches against Essendon by an average of over 50 points.
The fact that two of those games were played in Adelaide shows that Essendon struggle with the raucous Power crowd.
Port will also be bolstered by the ins of Dixon and Bonner, who both give the team quality and structure in equal measure.
The line is a high one, but it’s easy to see why. I expect the Power to win well here.
Port Adelaide -35.5
$1.90 (2 Units)
Prop Bets
Gray has been posted as more of a full-time forward this year, kicking 2+ goals on 4 occasions. In a soft matchup it’s easy to see him kicking multiple majors here.
Robbie Gray 2+ Goals ($1.70 at TAB)
Boak has had a couple of down weeks, but he is very capable of posting big numbers and loves playing at home. The veteran midfielder has hit 30 touches five times this year.
Travis Boak 30+ Disposals ($2.40 at TAB)
