Gabba will play host to Saturday's Round 24 AFL game between Brisbane Lions and Essendon Bombers. The game kicks off at 8:00 pm with Brisbane Lions heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Brisbane Lions vs. Essendon Bombers game and give you our free tips and bets.
When: Saturday August 24, 2024 at 8:00 pm
Where: Gabba
Bet: Bet On This Match HERE
Brisbane Lions vs Essendon Bombers Odds
Brisbane Lions vs Essendon Bombers Preview
There’s a certain symmetry between these two clubs in 2024—both had moments where it seemed the sky was the limit, yet both are likely to feel unfulfilled by season’s end.
The Lions will see September action, but their loss to the Pies has almost certainly cost them a top-four spot. Meanwhile, the Bombers were punished by the Swans for poor efficiency inside forward 50, and a trip to the Gabba might bring a repeat of last year’s final round thrashing by Collingwood.
The Lions’ depth still makes them a premiership threat, but having to navigate through an extra finals game will test their resilience. The game will likely be won or lost in the midfield, where Brisbane has a significant edge.
Stopping Joe Daniher and Eric Hipwood will be tough for the Bombers’ defense, so they’ll need to outscore rather than defend. Historically, the Bombers don’t perform well in final rounds, and with a potential top-four spot on the line, the Lions will be taking no risks. However, if the Cats beat the Eagles earlier, Brisbane’s top-four hopes may already be dashed.
Head To Head Bet
We're tipping Brisbane Lions to win at $1.12 odds.
First Goal Scorer
First Goal Scorer: Charlie Cameron at $11.
Brisbane Lions vs Essendon Bombers Teams
LIONS
B: D.Zorko, H.Andrews – C, C.McKenna
HB: D.Wilmot, R.Lester, D.Joyce
C: J.Fletcher, W.Ashcroft, H.McCluggage
HF: C.Rayner, J.Daniher, J.Berry
F: C.Cameron, E.Hipwood, C.Ah Chee
FOLL: O.McInerney, J.Dunkley, L.Neale
I/C: K.Lohmann, L.Morris, H.Sharp, Z.Bailey, N.Answerth
EMG: D.Robertson, J.Prior, H.Smith
IN: C.McKenna, N.Answerth
OUT: B.Starcevich (Injured), S.Brain (Omitted)
BOMBERS
B: A.McGrath, B.McKay, J.Laverde
HB: N.Martin, M.Redman, D.Heppell
C: M.Guelfi, S.Durham, A.Roberts
HF: H.Jones, N.Caddy, D.Parish
F: K.Langford, J.Stringer, D.Shiel
FOLL: S.Draper, J.Caldwell, Z.Merrett – C
I/C: B.Hobbs, J.Gresham, A.Perkins, N.Bryan, J.Kelly
EMG: E.Tsatas, P.Wright, L.Lual
IN: D.Heppell, M.Guelfi
OUT: S.Weideman (Injured), J.Menzie (Omitted)