AFL Round 19 kicks off on Thursday night as the injury-depleted Bombers come up against the Giants. It’s a heavily one-sided fixture in the betting markets, although there’s still some value to be found and we’ve done just that.
Below, we bring you our best bet, player prop, and Same Game Multi for the Power vs Eagles, with odds thanks to BetReal - a brand-new Aussie sportsbetting site we think you'll love!
Essendon vs GWS Prediction & Betting Tips: AFL 2025 Round 19
Bombers Ravaged by Injury
Essendon’s season, which began with so much promise, has hit a catastrophic roadblock as they prepare to host the GWS Giants to open Round 19. After a strong 6-4 start that had fans dreaming of a return to finals, the Bombers have slumped to six consecutive losses. The primary reason for this dramatic downturn has been an unprecedented injury crisis that has completely derailed their campaign. The club currently has a staggering 17 players on its injury list, forcing them to blood over a dozen debutants throughout the season. This constant shuffling of personnel has made it impossible for coach Brad Scott to build any sense of continuity or cohesion, turning what was once a promising year into a battle for survival. The Bombers are limping to the finish line, and Thursday night’s clash against a top-four contender looks to be another monumental challenge.
Giants Humming Along
In stark contrast, the GWS Giants are flying. After a somewhat inconsistent start to the year, Adam Kingsley’s men have found their groove and enter this clash as one of the most formidable teams in the competition. They ride a wave of momentum, having won four straight games and six of their last seven. Their most recent performance was a clinical 26-point victory over a quality Geelong side, showcasing their potent offensive firepower and disciplined defensive structure. A key factor in their recent surge has been the stunning emergence of former #1 draft pick, Aaron Cadman. The young key forward has been a revelation, booting an incredible 16 goals in his last four matches to become a vital focal point. With a win at Marvel Stadium, the Giants can leap into the top four, a testament to how well their season is building.
Recent Head-to-Head
Recent history between these two clubs presents a mixed picture, though it likely holds little relevance for Thursday’s game. Surprisingly, the injury-hit Bombers have managed to win two of their last three encounters against the Giants. However, sandwiched between those victories was a brutal 126-point demolition by GWS in August of 2023, a stark reminder of the damage they can inflict when at their best. Given the current state of Essendon’s list, past results mean very little. The Bombers team that will run out onto Marvel Stadium will be a shadow of the one that has competed against the Giants in recent years, making historical form a moot point.
Giants Demolition Job? Here's our Essendon vs GWS Tip
This match appears to be one of the biggest mismatches of the round. The Giants are peaking at the right time of year, while the Bombers are simply trying to piece together a competitive 23. With superior talent, confidence, and system, GWS should be able to control this contest from the outset. The -43.5 point spread seems more than achievable for a team with genuine premiership aspirations facing an opponent decimated by injury.
GWS –43.5
$1.90 (2.5 Units)
Essendon vs GWS Prop Bet
Our Best Player Prop Bet: Stringer 3+ Goals
The Package comes up against his old side and will be licking his lips knowing they’re more than seven-goal favourites. Stringer has found some nice form in recent weeks as well, with 12 goals from his last five matches despite three of them being sub-affected. He kicked a season-high four goals against the Cats last weekend and should be in for another nice night on Thursday.
Jake Stringer 3+ Goals
$2.33
Essendon vs GWS Same Game Multi
Toby Bedford Score Anytime: He’s been given a bit more freedom in recent weeks with less tagging jobs and playing more of a small forward role. He’s kicked a goal in three straight games and remains great value.
Archie Roberts 25+ Disposals: He’s had 25+ disposals in three of his last four games including 31 against the Tigers last weekend. The ball will be spending a lot of time down his end.
Finn Callaghan 25+ Disposals: The perfect conditions at Marvel will suit his silky game and I expect him to put in a big shift here.
Essendon vs GWS Betting Odds & Match Info
Odds: Essendon $8.50 vs GWS $1.07
Where to Watch Essendon vs GWS?
You can watch the Bombers vs Giants on Channel 7 or live and ad-free on Kayo Sports.
Follow our Essendon vs GWS Tips at Dabble!
