MCG will play host to Tuesday's Round 6 AFL game between Collingwood Magpies and Essendon Bombers. The game kicks off at 3:20 pm with Collingwood Magpies heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Collingwood Magpies vs. Essendon Bombers game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Tuesday April 25, 2023 at 3:20 pm

Where: MCG

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Collingwood Magpies vs Essendon Bombers Odds

Collingwood Magpies vs Essendon Bombers Preview

An ANZAC Day clash of epic proportions awaits on Tuesday with both the Pies and the Bombers ranked inside the top four for the first time since the start of the century.

After an eye-opening loss to the Lions on Easter Thursday, Collingwood came good last week with a hard-fought, nail-biting win over St Kilda in the final game of ‘Gather Round’.

Nick Daicos was sensational once again racking up over 40 disposals, and while the Saints came roaring back home to put a scare into supporters, it was still a big win for the black and white army against a genuine finals contender.

The Bombers, meanwhile, are the talk of the footy universe after downing Melbourne in the biggest upset of the round.

Sam Draper and Zach Merrett were enormous, but overall, it was Essendon’s defensive effort that really caught the eye.

Brad Scott has the Dons playing a stingy brand of football we haven’t seen in years, reflected in the stats with the Bombers currently ranked top five in fewest points, tackles, and clearances to opponents.

It’s fair to say there hasn’t been a tougher ANZAC Day game to pick over the last 20 years, especially after last season’s four-point thriller went right down to the wire.

On one hand, the Pies have shown they are beatable. Their fast brand sometimes leaves them vulnerable over the back, which could play into Essendon’s hands if Jake Stringer and Draper get their hands on the footy.

The Bombers, meanwhile, remain a relatively young side, and it will be fascinating to see how they handle not only the big stage but also the million-dollar question: how do you stop Nick Daicos?

You could build an argument for either side. Captain Zach Merrett potentially missing this game isn’t ideal for the Dons, while Collingwood still has serious problems in the ruck.

Overall, just like last year, I think the Pies pull off their usual trick and sneak home, but with Essendon full of confidence and likely to win the ruck battle, backing them to cover the line looks a smart play.

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