3 minute read

Racing and Sports will provide analysis of many games in the 2019 AFL Season.

We'll endeavour to run through the form, incorporate appropriate stats and also supply a betting prediction which won't always just be who will win.

RICHMOND V BRISBANE

Sunday 25 August @ MCG

What a way to head into the Finals (two week wait though) than 4 v 1 and they being the two most in form teams of the comp.

It's been a long while since a Tigers and Lions clash has meant this much. Only battles in a Zoo could see it as they come from differing continents.

Richmond is rolling. Seemingly on the same trajectory as 2017, they would desire top two but top four is just as good – especially if it works out that it is Geelong they face and that would be the likely match up if they win here.

There was a shiver down the back of all Tigers fans when Dylan Grimes hurt his leg in the second half. Having already lost Rance, they simply could not afford him gone too. He has stepped up manfully all year.

But as it stands, he is still a chance to play on Sunday and thus with the two week break, be ready for a Final. Even a miss here is not the end of the world.

The West Coast game was sensational. Two prize fighters, toe to toe, giving no inch and taking no mile and in the end there just a straight kick in it.

Plenty was made of the rain that came at half time and perhaps that did impact the Eagles flair but what happens if that occurs on GF day? Do we shut up shop and go home?

Richmond was clearly well in the match when it bucketed down. They did look home into the last stanza but couldn't land that knockout blow.

Some in footy circles have questioned Dustin Martin's lack of defensive presence during the game but when you have Lambert and Edwards around the ball and Vlastuin with Houli covering, he can do it all.

He is finding the form of two year's back and that spells "Danger, danger Will Robinson".

The loss of Sydney Stack for the rest of the season is a disappointing one. He has been a difference maker even in his first year. You would have him in the team over some of those who will play in his spot.

While they are flying, it is hard not to get on the Lions bandwagon. You'd think every neutral is cheering them on, and quite a few supporters of other finalists won't mind them winning either.

Their clash with Geelong lit up the Gabba – like it was Voss and Akermanis causing mayhem and Jonno Brown finger pointing to the sky.

They did so well to fight back after being three goals down with not that long to find them.

Then that remarkable mark and goal from Linc McCarthy made it sound like Thommo was steaming in from off the dog track in the 70s.

The mark was sensational but the effort to keep his composure and kick truly after that obviously even more critical given the final score.

They showed they have to be now a chance and a win at the MCG nails that to the flagpole.

That said, hell this will be hard to do. Richmond seemingly hasn't moved from the MCG since Kevin Bartlett last played. Dusty camps in the centre square every night.

Until the Lions do win away down there, need to stick with Richmond. But you'd love it to live up to the two corkers from last week.

Match Selection: Richmond by 15 points

Suggested Bets: Dustin Martin 30+ possessions @ $2.00