GMHBA Stadium will play host to Saturday's Round 1 AFL game between Geelong Cats and St Kilda Saints. The game kicks off at 7:30 pm with Geelong Cats heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Geelong Cats vs. St Kilda Saints game and give you our free tips and bets.
When: Saturday March 16, 2024 at 7:30 pm
Where: GMHBA Stadium
Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE
Geelong Cats vs St Kilda Saints Odds
Geelong Cats vs St Kilda Saints Preview
The anticipation at the Cattery for the grand opening of the Joel Selwood Stand has been palpable, and finally, in 2024, the moment has arrived.
After a premiership hangover in 2023, there are lingering concerns that Geelong’s slump may persist into the new season.
Meanwhile, the Saints exceeded expectations in 2023 under the guidance of Ross Lyon, securing a top-eight finish before bowing out in the Elimination Final.
While many view the Saints’ success in 2023 as overachievement, the burning question for them now is whether they can replicate that performance.
During the off-season, Geelong embarked on an explorative draft strategy, acquiring promising young talents like O’Sullivan and Stevens. They also took a gamble on mature-age recruit Shaun Mannagh from Werribee, who impressed during preseason.
On the other hand, the Saints bid farewell to key players like Gresham, Billings, and Coffield. However, they seem to have made astute moves with additions like Liam Henry and standout draft pick Darcy Wilson, who impressed with his performance in the 2km trial.
While all eyes are on Geelong, it’s worth noting that they are not invincible, especially at home, as proven on two occasions last year.
The Saints may just surprise a few observers with their performance in this matchup and betting suggests with St Kilda shortening with AFL betting sites.
Content provided by Ladbrokes
Head To Head Bet
We're tipping Geelong Cats to win at $1.55 odds.
First Goal Scorer
First Goal Scorer: Tom Hawkins at $8.50.
Geelong Cats vs St Kilda Saints Teams
CATS
B: T.Stewart, S.De Koning, Z.Guthrie
HB: M.O’Connor, J.Henry, M.Duncan
C: M.Blicavs, P.Dangerfield – C, M.Holmes
HF: B.Close, T.Stengle, T.Hawkins
F: J.Cameron, O.Dempsey, O.Henry
FOLL: R.Stanley, T.Bruhn, J.Clark
I/C: J.Kolodjashnij, T.Atkins, Z.Tuohy, G.Miers, S.Mannagh
EMG: O.Mullin, S.Neale, B.Parfitt
SAINTS
B: L.Stocker, Z.Cordy, C.Wilkie
HB: J.Battle, R.Bonner, N.Wanganeen-Milera
C: M.Wood, S.Ross, B.Hill
HF: D.Wilson, L.Henry, M.Owens
F: J.Higgins, M.King, T.Membrey
FOLL: R.Marshall, J.Steele – C, B.Crouch
I/C: M.Windhager, L.Collard, R.Byrnes, M.Phillipou, C.Sharman
EMG: A.Schoenmaker, H.Garcia, A.Caminiti