Round 16 in the AFL continues on Friday night with a blockbuster battle between the rejuvenated Swans and the talented Bulldogs. It’s a big test for both teams who are looking to build some momentum in the back half of the season.
Below, we bring you our best bet, player prop, and Same Game Multi for the Swans vs Bulldogs clash, with odds thanks to Dabble!
Sydney vs Western Bulldogs Prediction & Tips: 2025 AFL Round 16
Swans Season Still Salvageable?
Sydney is set to host the Western Bulldogs in a pivotal Friday night clash for Round 16, a game carrying significant weight for both clubs' finals aspirations. The Swans enter this encounter with renewed confidence following a gritty 19-point away win against Port Adelaide last weekend. This victory, while somewhat marred by inaccurate goalkicking, highlighted the immense impact of key returns. The presence of midfield maestro Errol Gulden, making his first appearance of 2025, and dynamic forward Tom Papley, alongside Joel Amartey and Matt Roberts, provided the Swans with a much-needed injection of talent and structure that had been missing for much of the season. Their collective return had a noticeable effect on the team's synergy and overall performance, enabling them to secure consecutive wins for only the second time this year.
Are the Bulldogs Contenders?
The Western Bulldogs are in strong form, fresh off a dominant 79-point thrashing of Richmond in Round 15. A significant factor in their recent surge has been the continued domination of tall forward Sam Darcy, who once again starred with a game-high five goals against the Tigers, proving an immovable object in attack. This Friday night will also be a momentous occasion for captain Marcus Bontempelli, as he celebrates his 250th AFL game. Bontempelli enters this milestone match in stellar form as well, having delivered a masterful performance last weekend with 36 disposals, three goals, seven clearances, and 12 score involvements, leading from the front with a truly exceptional outing.
Key Stats That Matter
Looking at key advanced statistics, the Bulldogs rank highly in contested possessions and inside 50s, demonstrating their ability to win the ball at the source and create scoring opportunities. They are currently equal first in total points scored across the league. In contrast, while the Swans showed improved pressure against Port Adelaide (a pressure rating of 185-173), their goalkicking efficiency has been a concern, exemplified by their 9.17 (71) score last weekend. Historically, recent encounters between these two sides have been fiercely contested. Last season, in Round 20, the Western Bulldogs delivered a commanding 39-point victory over the Swans at the SCG, controlling the game from the outset and keeping Sydney goalless in the opening term.
Swans or Dogs? Here’s Our Sydney vs Bulldogs Tip
Considering the Bulldogs' strong recent form combined with the emotional lift of Marcus Bontempelli's 250th game, they are well-positioned to repeat last season's performance at the SCG. Their midfield dominance, coupled with Sam Darcy's forward craft and Bontempelli's inspirational leadership, gives them an edge here. Expect the Western Bulldogs to cover the -9.5 spread and secure a vital victory on Friday night
Western Bulldogs –9.5
$1.91 (1.5 Units)
Sydney vs Bulldogs Player Prop Bet
Our Best Player Prop: Matthew Kennedy 25+ Disposals
Kennedy has been one of the recruits of the year and has put together a spectacularly consistent season. He’s averaging 25.1 disposals per game, but that number is only increasing as the year progresses. Kennedy has notched 25+ disposals in each of his last five games as well as seven of his past eight games, yet he remains juicy value at nearly the $2 mark.
Matthew Kennedy 25+ Disposals
$1.93 (1 Unit)
Sydney vs Bulldogs Same Game Multi
Matthew Kennedy 25+ Disposals: For the reasons mentioned above. Happy to include Kennedy in our SGM as well.
Ed Richards 25+ Dispsosals: Still the games highest rated player this season according to Champion Data. Richards has reached the 25 disposal mark in eight straight matches.
Ed Richards Score Anytime: Richards has also been hitting the scoreboard regularly this year. He’s kicked at least one goal in nine straight matches.
Sydney vs Bulldogs Betting Odds & Match Info
Weather: 16 degrees, Mostly Cloudy
Odds: Sydney $2.45 vs Bulldogs $1.55
Also, Before You Bet will be providing free previews and betting tips for EVERY game in the 2025 AFL season, so make sure to head over to our AFL Tips regularly to keep up to date with all of our free content.
Where to Watch Sydney vs Bulldogs?
You can watch all the Swans vs Bulldogs action on Channel 7 or live and ad free on Kayo Sports.
Back in our Sydney vs Bulldogs Tips at Dabble!
