Gather Round continues in the AFL on Saturday night with a finals-like atmosphere expected at the Adelaide Oval for Port Adelaide and the Western Bulldogs. Both the Power and the Dogs were strong winners last round and will be looking to consolidate their place inside the AFL Top 8.
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AFL Round 5 Port Adelaide vs Western Bulldogs Preview
Adelaide Oval, Saturday April 15th, 7:50pm AEST
The Power take on the Western Bulldogs on Saturday night and they will be aiming to make it a South Australian sweep in the first year of the AFL’s Gather Round in Adelaide after the Crows thrashed Carlton in the round opener on Thursday.
Both the Power and the Bulldogs were upset winners in Round 4, bringing their record to 2-2 to be nestled next to each other just outside the top eight.
A late Oli Florent kick at goal on the buzzer was short for the Swans, ensuring the Power an away win at the SCG in what was a tight tussle throughout.
Former Giant Jeremy Finlayson was key for Port with three goals, including the match winner, whilst young gun Zac Butters had his best game of the year with 27 disposals and a goal.
The Dogs have hit some form in the past two rounds with big wins against Brisbane and Richmond. Their defence has been key, holding those two sides to just 137 points collectively. Tim English has been outstanding for the Dogs and his ability to hit the scoreboard has been just as important as his ruck work and marking ability.
I just can’t figure out Port Adelaide as a side – their form is so hard to trust. Their best is good enough to match it with the top teams however they often play down to the level of weaker opposition and lose games they shouldn’t.
For that reason, I think the Dogs are a great value bet here at $2.70. On talent, I don’t think there is much separating them.
Western Bulldogs to win
$2.70
Same Game Multi
Tim English 1+ goals – He’s been excellent this season, launching himself into contention for an All-Australian birth.
Bailey Dale 25+ disposals – Has been improving with each game this season. Will get a lot of the ball from half back.
Aaron Naughton 2+ goals – Whilst he can be wayward, there’s no doubt his marking prowess will give him a number of opportunities at goal. He’s kicked 2 or more in his past three starts against the Power at Adelaide Oval.
Zac Butters 20+ disposals – One of the many young players from the Power that have a bright future in store. He can build off a big game last weekend.
Same Game Multi odds - $6.75
