Last to go in Round 7 of the AFL is one of the most intriguing games of the weekend as the Giants host the Kangaroos at Manuka Oval. The Kangaroos have put together a far superior record so far this season albeit against weak opposition, and they will go in as the sizeable underdogs.
We bring you our full preview and expert tips for the Giants vs North below. And if you’re keen to back in our tips, consider doing so at Bet365 - one of the biggest and best sportsbooks in the world!
GWS vs North Melbourne Prediction & Betting Tips: AFL 2026 Round 7
Must Win Game for the Giants
GWS return to Manuka Oval this Sunday searching for answers after a fairly poor 2-4 start to their campaign. Adam Kingsley's men were exposed in last week's Sydney Derby, highlighting the massive midfield voids left by long-term injuries to Tom Green and Josh Kelly. However, the Giants receive a monumental boost this week with several big names returning to the side. Jesse Hogan resumes his post up forward after overcoming a quad complaint alongside Aaron Cadman, while the experienced Stephen Coniglio and dynamic Brent Daniels return to the middle. This injection of class provides GWS with the firepower and structural stability they have desperately lacked over the past month.
Big Test for North
North Melbourne arrive in the capital as the genuine surprise package of the season, boasting an impressive 4-2 record under Alastair Clarkson. The Roos are riding high following a clinical demolition of Richmond last weekend, showcasing a scoring potency that has them sitting comfortably inside the top eight. Adding historical significance to the occasion, the club will proudly wear its first-ever Anzac guernsey. The visitors are further fortified by the crucial return of lead ruckman Tristan Xerri from a three-match suspension. Xerri's immense physical presence at the stoppages will provide a massive structural advantage, allowing an emerging midfield brigade to generate first use of the football and sustain their high-pressure transition game.
Recent H2H History
While GWS has traditionally troubled North Melbourne with their outside speed, the Giants have a shockingly poor record in Canberra. Since 2021, GWS has gone 5-10 at Manuka Oval, covering the spread just four times during that span. Furthermore, this current iteration of the Kangaroos is vastly superior to the rebuilding squads of previous years. Clarkson has implemented a disciplined team defence that successfully stifles opposition ball movement, turning matches into contested, grinding affairs.
Giants or North? Here’s Our Best Bet
While the Giants will undoubtedly be improved by their returning cavalry, the current market severely underestimates the strides North Melbourne has made. With Xerri back to command the ruck and exploit a vulnerable GWS stoppage setup, the Kangaroos have the contested strength to dictate terms and neutralise the Giants' preferred outside run. The visitors are playing with immense belief and consistently execute a disciplined brand of football that keeps them highly competitive against quality opposition. GWS simply has not shown enough consistent form to justify being such heavy favourites, especially at a venue where they continually struggle.
North Melbourne +15.5
$1.90 (2 Units)
GWS vs North Melbourne Prop Bet
After a red-hot start to the season for North Melbourne’s spearhead in Nick Larkey, the last few weeks have been relatively quiet as it’s simply been the Cooper Trembath show up forward. However, the Giants have some injuries down back and Larkey should be able to take advantage of his matchup which will likely be Jack Buckley. Getting $3.00 odds for such an accurate and prolific goalkicker like Larkey doesn’t come around often in a winnable game for the Roos, so this is a good spot to attack.
Nick Larkey 3+ Goals
$3.00
GWS vs North Melbourne Same Game Multi
North Melbourne +15.5: For the reasons mentioned above in our best bet.
Nick Larkey 3+ Goals: For the reasons mentioned above in our prop bet.
Jesse Hogan 2+ Goals: North have made some big improvements down back this season but they are still vulnerable against big key forwards like Hogan. He should be hitting the scoreboard here.
Same Game Odds: $6.25 at Bet365
GWS vs North Melbourne Match Info & Betting Odds
Date: Sunday 26th April
Time: 4:40pm AEST
Location: Manuka Oval, NSW
Odds: GWS $1.47 vs North Melbourne $2.71
Line: -14.5
Points: 186.5
Where to Watch GWS vs North Melbourne
You can watch the Giants vs North live and ad-free on Kayo Sports.
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