AFL Round Nine Preview

AMAZING how time flies when you're having fun, isn't it? Already in 2006, we're through the NAB Cup and have eaten up a third of the season.

And still, when it comes to tipping, we don't know who to trust.

Adelaide have shown frailties against the flood, while those who spoke of Geelong in 'contender' terms have egg on their faces. Collingwood are all the rage, while the Saints are back in business. Those reigning premiers are looking hot, too.

This week, plenty of matches are spiced with interest, starting with Friday night's showdown between the Magpies and the Bulldogs. Maybe it will provide an answer to the eternal question - talls or smalls?

Elsewhere, Melbourne will fancy their chances of upsetting West Coast in Perth, while Essendon and Port Adelaide will seek to avoid wooden spoon favouritism when they clash on Sunday at the Dome.

Bet of the week: Western Bulldogs @ $3.15 to defeat Collingwood.
The bookies rarely get it wrong, but the Bulldogs are sensational value for their match with Collingwood. They'll be stinging after the loss to Sydney and their running game is ripe for the MCG.

FRIDAY NIGHT

Collingwood vs Western Bulldogs
Melbourne Cricket Ground
5:40pm (WA), 7:10pm (SA), 7:40pm (EST)

No team is hotter than Collingwood right now and their smashing of Geelong confirmed the Magpies as a real chance for the top four. The Bulldogs coughed and splutted against Sydney, but have the midfield power to get home.

Western Bulldogs by 24 points.

SATURDAY AFTERNOON

Geelong vs Richmond
Skilled Stadium, Geelong
12:10pm (WA), 1:40pm (SA), 2:10pm (EST)

Geelong's season has contorted in every direction in 2006 - and a 3-5 record leaves them needing to win games like this. Richmond's only real hope is if they flood hard and fast, but you wouldn't expect they'd do it again.

Geelong by 34 points.

Adelaide vs Carlton
AAMI Stadium, Adelaide
1:10pm (WA), 2:40pm (SA), 3:10pm (EST)

Anyone looking for a close match should look away now. This has one-sided affair written all over it, and if the Blues stay within ten goals of Adelaide, it would be a commendable result.

Adelaide by 64 points.

SATURDAY NIGHT

Essendon vs Port Adelaide
Telstra Dome, Melbourne
5:10pm (WA), 6:40pm (SA), 7:10pm (EST)

Essendon were gallant and brave in pushing West Coast right to the limit last week, but they should get their reward here. Port are struggling badly and whilst they are likely to perform better than their previous fortnight, Essendon look desperate for a win.

Essendon by 9 points.

Hawthorn vs Sydney
Melbourne Cricket Ground
5:10pm (WA), 6:40pm (SA), 7:10pm (EST)

While Hawthorn are still some way from the finished product, Sydney are finding some real form. The Hawks have lots of talent up their sleeves, and won't be without a chance, but the Swans are playing with confidence.

Sydney by 24 points.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

Brisbane Lions vs Fremantle
Gabba Ground, Brisbane
11:10am (WA), 12:40pm (SA), 1:10pm (EST)

There's something a little more convincing about the Fremantle of 2006 than previous years. At 5-3 and with a good run home, the Dockers are a real chance to go a long way - but a long trip to Brisbane is a bit much right now.

Brisbane Lions by 17 points.

St Kilda vs Kangaroos
Telstra Dome, Melbourne
12:10pm (WA), 1:40pm (SA), 2:10pm (EST)

St Kilda may have belted the Blues last week, although much sterner opposition awaits them this week. While the Kangaroos have a penchant for mucking around with the form guide, the Saints look stronger.

St Kilda by 32 points.

West Coast vs Melbourne
Subiaco Oval, Perth
2:40pm (WA), 4:10pm (SA), 4:40pm (EST)

Melbourne are the type of team who can win matches like this, which is why you can never write them off. Expect a tight match from start to finish, with the Eagles' firepower just too much.

West Coast by 20 points.

Until next week, happy punting!

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