Bulldogs v Brisbane AFL Rd 3 betting tips – Thursday, March 30

After a disastrous start to the 2023 AFL season, the Western Bulldogs will be desperate to book a win when they host the Brisbane Lions at Marvel Stadium this Thursday night in round three.

After two rounds of AFL action, the Bulldogs are arguably the most disappointing team in the competition. They are winless after a 50-point drubbing by Melbourne and a 51-point loss to St Kilda.

There have been few upsides, and many pundits are questioning the side’s fitness levels after the pair of woeful results. They were beaten on inside 50s by the Saints 37 to 57, as well as losing the hitouts, clearances, contested possessions, and tackle count.

The Brisbane Lions bounced back after a poor effort in round one against Port Adelaide to knock over the high-flying Demons. Brisbane looked like premiership material – especially around the clearances, where they outworked their opponents to win the count 60 to 32.

The final scoreline flattered the Demons somewhat and the Lions comfortably led by around 40 points for most of the second half. We can expect Brisbane to be very hard to beat on home soil for the entire season, so their top-four aspirations may rest on their results away from home.

Key matchup: Bontempelli v Zorko

Marcus Bontempelli vs Dayne Zorko

Bulldog midfielder Marcus Bontempelli is his team’s most important player. His leadership and on-field demeanour are critical to their winning chances. Bontempelli has averaged 24.5 disposals, 5.0 tackles, and 6.0 clearances over the first two weeks of footy, but more is needed from the towering talisman. With the pressure mounting after two losses, it is time for ‘The Bont’ to stand up and drag his teammates along.

Brisbane midfielder Dayne Zorko produced a well-rounded effort against the Demons, finishing with two goals, 22 disposals, nine marks, four tackles, and two clearances. While other players found more of the ball, Zorko’s possessions were meaningful and decisive. His ability to drift forward and add potency inside 50 makes him an elite midfielder with all the tools.

Western Bulldogs v Brisbane Lions betting strategy

The Lions are deservedly short for this game, with online bookmakers setting the early line set at 14.5 points. The Dogs would need to produce a miraculous form reversal to be competitive. This game will tell us exactly where they are placed. Another 50-point loss will confirm they are in for a rough year that does not include September action.

Based on what we have seen thus far, we are obliged to tip the Lions at the line. The only possible weakness could be their form away from home, which might explain the loss to Port Adelaide.

Bulldogs v Lions AFL Rd 3 same game multi tips

For those looking to add some value to their weekend, we suggest taking Brisbane -14.5 points, into Dayne Zorko anytime goalscorer, into Hugh McCluggage to get 20 or more disposals. This triple-header will return $3.26 on Marantelli Bet.

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