MCG will play host to Friday's Round 18 AFL game between Melbourne Demons and Brisbane Lions. The game kicks off at 7:50 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. Brisbane Lions game and give you our free tips and bets.
When: Friday July 14, 2023 at 7:50 pm
Where: MCG
Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE
Melbourne Demons vs Brisbane Lions Odds
Melbourne Demons vs Brisbane Lions Preview
A pivotal clash at the ‘G awaits on Friday between 3rd and 4th.
Another top four finish is in sight for the Dees, but fans and critics would like to see them prove something on the big stage following another low-scoring win over St Kilda last week.
To their credit, Melbourne knocked off Collingwood just over a month ago in thrilling fashion, but we’re yet to see the Dees really put their foot down and win well this year.
This is undoubtedly a ‘prove it’ game for the home side, the Lions running out 11-point winners at the Gabba when they met back in Round 2.
Likewise, Brisbane will also be out to prove themselves worthy of a spot in the Premiership conversation.
The Lions have put together four wins on the trot, but after kicking 16 goals and 20 behinds in last week’s blowout over West Coast, discipline and accuracy in front of goal were likely the focus during training this week.
Brisbane’s horror record at the MCG only makes betting on this game more complicated, although it’s worth remembering last year’s emphatic finals win over the Dees to advance to the Semi’s.
Statistically, the Dees can match Brisbane in the clearances and hit-outs department, but where this matchup gets interesting is up forward.
Both sides have been among the top five best at getting the ball inside 50, but not surprisingly, the Lions’ talent has made the most of their opportunities, currently leading the league in points-per-game.
This is a game Brisbane simply must win if we are to take them seriously, and with the Dees seemingly only just ticking along, they look the more convincing pick with some value on offer.
Content provided by Ladbrokes
Head To Head Bet
We're tipping Melbourne Demons to win at $1.85 odds.
First Goal Scorer
First Goal Scorer: Joe Daniher at $10.00.
Melbourne Demons vs Brisbane Lions Teams
DEES
Backs: J.McVee, H.Petty, J.Lever
Half Backs: J.Bowey, S.May, A.Brayshaw
Centreline: T.Rivers, J.Viney, T.Woewodin
Half Forwards: K.Pickett, J.Melksham, E.Langdon
Forwards: J.Jordon, B.Brown, C.Spargo
Followers: M.Gawn – C, C.Petracca, L.Hunter
Interchange: J.van Rooyen, C.Salem, A.Neal-Bullen, T.Sparrow
Emergencies: B.Grundy, L.Dunstan, J.Smith, K.Chandler
In: J.van Rooyen
Out: B.Grundy (Omitted), J.Smith (Sub)
LIONS
Backs: B.Starcevich, H.Andrews – C, J.Payne
Half Backs: C.McKenna, R.Lester, K.Coleman
Centreline: H.McCluggage, Z.Bailey, J.Fletcher
Half Forwards: C.Cameron, E.Hipwood, L.McCarthy
Forwards: D.Zorko, J.Daniher, C.Rayner
Followers: O.McInerney, L.Neale, W.Ashcroft
Interchange: J.Berry, J.Lyons, J.Gunston, D.Wilmot
Emergencies: K.Lohmann, D.Robertson, D.Fort, D.Joyce
In: L.McCarthy, J.Berry
Out: J.Madden (Injured), D.Robertson (Omitted), K.Lohmann (Sub)
