MCG will play host to Saturday's Round 18 AFL game between Melbourne Demons and Essendon Bombers. The game kicks off at 7:30 pm with Essendon Bombers heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Melbourne Demons vs. Essendon Bombers game and give you our free tips and bets.
When: Saturday July 13, 2024 at 7:30 pm
Where: MCG
Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE
Melbourne Demons vs Essendon Bombers Odds
Melbourne Demons vs Essendon Bombers Preview
Finals credentials took a big step last week as the Bombers got a big scalp in the Magpies, although how big it was might change if Collingwood continues their form.
Nonetheless, it was impressive and the statement they needed, so the question is, can they back it up against another finals contender?
They certainly can, but the Dees are still super dangerous, and whilst form has been up and down, we cant deny they have premiership talent across the shop that can still hurt you.
Melbourne had won the last three clashes against Essendon until Gather Round last year, where Essendon were dominant from start to finish, proving they could take it up to the Dees.
Essendons biggest letdown at times is their inability to execute the fundamentals in defensive transition, turning it over way too easily and allowing repeat entries back inside 50.
Melbourne looked sizzling against the Eagles, which isnt a lot to harp on about, but there was no sign of struggle in their execution.
The lesson the Dees can take from Collingwood is to shut down the Bombers ease through the corridor and force them long and deep inside 50.
Essendon shared it around with 11 different goal scorers which proved hard to handle, and for Melbourne, they were punishing when they were dynamic in their forward half.
This game has the possibility to be quite open and free-flowing, and weather permitting, it could see a similar 2019 result with a final score of 112-130.
Essendon has been outdone by class this year, and whilst they should be in this for four quarters, the Dees have experienced talent that can capitalise on key moments.
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Melbourne Demons vs Essendon Bombers Tip
We're tipping Essendon Bombers to win at $1.52 odds.
Melbourne Demons vs Essendon Bombers Teams
DEMONS
B: T.McDonald, S.May, J.McVee
HB: T.Rivers, J.Lever, J.Bowey
C: E.Langdon, C.Oliver, A.Neal-Bullen
HF: K.Pickett, J.van Rooyen, T.Sparrow
F: K.Chandler, B.Fritsch, J.Melksham
FOLL: H.Petty, J.Viney – C, C.Salem
I/C: C.Windsor, K.Tholstrup, T.Woewodin, D.Turner, A.Moniz-Wakefield
EMG: B.Laurie, A.Tomlinson, T.Fullarton
IN: H.Petty
OUT: M.Gawn (Injured)
BOMBERS
B: J.Ridley, B.McKay, D.Heppell
HB: N.Martin, M.Redman, A.McGrath
C: X.Duursma, S.Durham, A.Perkins
HF: M.Guelfi, H.Jones, N.Caddy
F: J.Stringer, P.Wright, K.Langford
FOLL: S.Draper, J.Caldwell, Z.Merrett – C
I/C: D.Shiel, J.Gresham, N.Cox, N.Hind, J.Kelly
EMG: W.Setterfield, J.Laverde, T.Goldstein
IN: D.Heppell
OUT: J.Laverde (Managed)
