MCG will play host to Monday's Round 13 AFL game between Melbourne Demons and Collingwood Magpies. 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 Melbourne Demons vs. Collingwood Magpies game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Monday June 12, 2023 at 3:20 pm

Where: MCG

Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE

Melbourne Demons vs Collingwood Magpies Odds

Melbourne Demons vs Collingwood Magpies Preview

The market tells you everything you need to know ahead of this King’s Birthday blockbuster.

Both sides put on an absolute classic the second time they met last season, Collingwood prevailing by seven points in Round 21 thanks to individual four-goal bags from Ash Johnson and Jamie Elliott.

In positive news for the Pies, Elliott is set to return for this clash, perfect timing with Jordan deGoey set for an extended stint on the sideline due to suspension.

As for the Dees, Melbourne is also set to receive a big boost through the middle with Clayton Oliver expected back sooner than expected, and it’s fair to say his return couldn’t come quick enough after some lackluster performances in his absence.

Getting the ball forward and finding targets has proven a big problem for Simon Goodwin’s side over the last few weeks, the Dees amassing only 61 points in a less-than-convincing win over Carlton last week.

Meanwhile, down back, Melbourne is still struggling to defend one on one, not to mention their struggles around the clearances.

When you compare these two sides side by side statistically, there isn’t a huge difference. Both are averaging around 14 goals a game, while the pair are also fairly close to even in contested possessions, tackles, and inside 50s.

The only glaring difference is turnovers, a problem area the Dees need to clean up in a hurry. Collingwood is by far the most punishing team in transition, and even without deGoey, if Melbourne fails to take care of the footy, the Pies could make them pay massively on the scoreboard.

Overall, this is a fascinating market given Collingwood’s sheer dominance and the fact Melbourne has struggled to get out of third gear for the last couple of months.

Given everything we’ve seen, Oliver’s inclusion isn’t enough to explain the even money on offer, making the Pies a steal at the quote.

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