AFL R5 preview, match predictions & betting tips | Round 5, 2024

After an exciting Gather Round in Adelaide, we return to regular programming as the 2024 AFL Premiership season continues this weekend. With the Magpies and Swans on their bye, here is our free AFL betting preview for all eight matches in round five.

Melbourne Demons vs Brisbane Lions

Thursday, April 11 – 7:30pm AEST – MCG

On a run of four straight wins, the Melbourne Demons have looked very impressive since their opening-round loss. Welcoming the Lions, they enter as strong betting favourites against a Brisbane side that has just one win — against the winless Kangaroos — this season. Melbourne’s average winning margin at the MCG this season is 50 points, while Brisbane have a notoriously poor record at the venue.

Western Bulldogs vs Essendon Bombers

Friday, April 12 – 7:40pm AEST – Marvel Stadium

Coming off a 69-point loss to the Power last Friday, the 2-2 Bombers have been arguably the most inconsistent side in the AFL so far. Also 2-2, the Western Bulldogs have been much more impressive despite falling to the Cats by four points in Gather Round. Having scored more than 90 points in each of their past three matches, expect the Dogs to take advantage of a leaky Essendon defence.

GWS Giants vs St Kilda Saints

Saturday, April 13 – 1:45pm AEST – Manuka Oval

Undefeated and on top of the ladder, the GWS Giants have had an excellent start to 2024. Playing at their second home in Canberra, they enter as comfortable favourites against St Kilda, who have struggled in front of goal this season. The Saints are looking for revenge after losing to GWS in the finals last year, but given their current form, it seems unlikely.

Carlton Blues vs Adelaide Crows

Saturday, April 13 – 4:35pm AEST – Marvel Stadium

The Adelaide Crows have had a horror start to 2024, as they sit winless through their first four matches. With the second-worst attack in the competition, they come in as clear underdogs against the undefeated Carlton Blues. After they got very lucky with some late calls last Saturday, expect Carlton to put in a much more convincing performance back at home.

Gold Coast Suns vs Hawthorn Hawks

Saturday, April 13 – 7:30pm AEST – People First Stadium

Following their solid start to the season, the Suns have now lost their past two games by comfortable margins. Back on the Gold Coast, they are expected to get back to winning ways as favourites with top AFL bookmakers against the winless Hawks. However, Hawthorn pushed the reigning premiers to the end last Sunday, so this match may be closer than expected.

Port Adelaide Power vs Fremantle Dockers

Saturday, April 13 – 7pm ACST – Adelaide Oval

After suffering their first defeat of the season last Saturday, the Fremantle Dockers return to Adelaide Oval for another tough matchup against the Power. In a clash between two of the best young midfields in the AFL, expect a fierce contest around the ball. Freo hold the best defensive record in the league, but against Port Adelaide’s tall forwards, their defence will be put to the test.

Geelong Cats vs North Melbourne Kangaroos

Sunday, April 14 – 1pm AEST – GMHBA Stadium

Undefeated in their first four games, the Geelong Cats have surprised many this season as their mix of young and old continues to get the job done. Hosting the 17th-placed Kangaroos, Chris Scott’s men are heavily favoured to extend a winning streak that dates back to 2015. Expect Geelong’s tall trio of Jeremy Cameron, Tom Hawkins and Ollie Henry to take full advantage of the worst defence in the AFL.

West Coast Eagles vs Richmond Tigers

Sunday, April 14 – 1pm AWST – Optus Stadium

Winless and last on the AFL ladder, the West Coast Eagles finally showed something as they won their first quarter of the year against the Swans last Saturday. Welcoming the Tigers, they have their best opportunity so far for a win, albeit as sizeable underdogs. Despite an extensive injury list, Richmond should be too good, but don’t be surprised if there is a scare.

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