MCG will play host to Saturday's Round 1 AFL game between Melbourne Demons and Western Bulldogs. The game kicks off at 7:25 pm with Melbourne Demons heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Melbourne Demons vs. Western Bulldogs game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Saturday March 18, 2023 at 7:25 pm

Where: MCG

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Melbourne Demons vs Western Bulldogs Odds

Melbourne Demons vs Western Bulldogs Preview

Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs will kick off their 2023 campaigns in a highly anticipated clash at the MCG on Saturday night. This will be the first meeting between these two teams since the 2021 Grand Final, in which Melbourne secured their first premiership in 57 years. However, both teams had a disappointing season last year and will be eager to make amends in the new season.

The Demons, who finished the regular season in first place, were eliminated from the finals series in straight sets after losing to Sydney and Brisbane. They won only six of their last 14 games, leaving fans and pundits alike scratching their heads. Meanwhile, the Bulldogs made it to the finals, but were eliminated in an elimination final against Fremantle, despite holding a 41-point lead early in the second quarter.

The last time these two teams met was in a thrilling contest at Marvel Stadium, in which the Bulldogs came from 27 points down to win by 10 points, led by Jamarra Ugle-Hagan’s five-goal performance. However, the result of their Round 1 clash at the MCG last year may be more relevant to this matchup, with Melbourne comfortably winning 97-71.

This match promises to be a must-watch, as both teams look to bounce back from their disappointments last season and start their 2023 campaigns with a win.