Carlton v Geelong AFL Rd 2 betting tips – Thursday, March 23

With both sides winless after round one, Carlton and Geelong will be desperate to lock up their first victory of the 2023 AFL season when they clash at the MCG for a Thursday night blockbuster.

While Carlton fought hard in their low-scoring draw against Richmond, there were obvious areas of deficiency that will need to be addressed to match the reigning premiers. The Blues were beaten by the Tigers on key stats such inside 50s, tackles, hitouts, and clearances, so there is much improvement required.

Pleasing for the Blues was the form of captain and talisman Patrick Cripps, who looked impressive with 25 disposals and six tackles, and the efforts of Sam Docherty and George Hewitt, who grabbed 25 and 28 disposals respectively. If Carlton can continue to share the workload in such a manner, they have the talent to beat any side.

The big concern for the Cats going into this contest will be their injury list. The Geelong dugout resembled a field hospital during the loss to Collingwood, and there will be bandages aplenty on Thursday night. Tom Hawkins is the biggest concern and will need to pass a test on an injured foot before taking the field.

The other concern is Geelong’s inability to close out a win in round one despite some remarkably accurate goalkicking. The Cats kicked 16.3 to three-quarter time and no team should lose from there, let alone the pre-season premiership favourites.

Key matchup: Charlie Curnow v Jeremy Cameron

Carlton full forward Charlie Curnow kicked 3.0 in the draw with Richmond and will be integral to his team’s winning hopes again. The 2022 Coleman Medal winner was otherwise quiet in round one with only 10 disposals, one mark, and one tackle. The best modern-day key forwards not only kick goals, but also assist and apply defensive pressure, and Curnow needs to develop this aspect of his game.

If Hawkins is ruled out, Geelong key forward Jeremy Cameron will need to step up and fill the void. Cameron kicked 2.1 against the Magpies, also taking eight marks and securing 16 disposals. Cameron is much more adept at finding the ball downfield than Curnow, and the performance of these big men will have a telling impact on the outcome.

Carlton v Geelong AFL Rd 2 betting strategy

The Cats are priced very short for this contest with the line set at a tempting 11.5 points. We are yet to be convinced they deserve such odds just yet. This looks to be a close game and we will happily take Carlton with the benefit of head start. It would be no great shock to see them win.

Carlton v Geelong AFL Rd 2 same game multi

For those chasing larger returns, we are linking Carlton +11.5 into George Hewitt for 25 or more disposals, into Charlie Curnow for two or more goals. This combination will return $4.09 with BetOnline.

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