Essendon v Port Adelaide AFL R16 betting tips – July 1, 2023

Essendon v Port Adelaide prediction & best bets

Essendon v Port Adelaide AFL R16 match preview

The Port Adelaide Power travel across to the MCG on Saturday night as they look to keep their winning streak going against Essendon in round 16 of the 2023 AFL Premiership.

The Bombers faced the Fremantle Dockers in Perth last weekend, going down by 32 points. After kicking the first two goals of the game, the Essendon Bombers were outclassed as they buckled under the Fremantle pressure.

Although a disappointing loss, the Bombers still sit sixth on the ladder with their finals aspirations alive.

The Port Adelaide Power had a bye last weekend, but the week before they hosted the Geelong Cats, winning by 38 points. After trailing for much of the first half, the Power got on a roll in the second half, kicking seven goals in a row in the third quarter. Blowing out the margin in the end, the Power gained some much-needed percentage in their pursuit of a top-two spot.

This win brings the Port Adelaide streak up to 11 games in a row, now facing the challenge of keeping it going following the disruption of the bye.

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Essendon v Port Adelaide AFL betting strategy

Port Adelaide come into this one having won the last six clashes between these two sides, including a five-point comeback win in round eight. Meanwhile, the Bombers will be looking to bounce back from a substandard performance by knocking off the form team in the AFL.

A worry for the Power this weekend is the form of teams coming off the bye, who have a record of 2-10, with the two winning teams playing against another team coming off the bye. An upset looms in this one, as the underdog Bombers show good value at $2.55 with the top AFL betting sites.

A breakout star for the Bombers this season, wingman Nic Martin has surged into All-Australian contention with a great run of form over the last few weeks. Gathering 25 or more in four out his last five games, Martin outworks his opponent to find space pushing forward and is regularly sought out by teammates. Back Martin to continue his good form with 25 or more disposals at $2.60 with BetOnline.

Another big improver this season, Port Adelaide key forward Jeremy Finlayson has been a big contributor in the winning run. With 11 goals in his last three games, he has become the target man of their attack, being relieved of the bulk of his ruck duties. Having kicked at least one goal in every game since round five, expect Finlayson’s form to continue as he boots two or more at $1.58.

Key matchup: Zach Merrett v Zak Butters

Zach Merrett vs Zak Butters

Given the captaincy this year, Zach Merrett has relished the opportunity to lead by example each week. A versatile player, he isn’t solely limited to playing on ball, often drifting forward or back when needed depending on the match situation. He collects a lot of uncontested footy, giving himself time to move the ball forward to find teammates in scoring areas.

Improving to another level this season, Zak Butters has proven himself as one of the best players in the AFL. Winning games almost off his own boot, Butters’ disposal is extremely damaging to the opposition. Working in combination with his fellow star midfielders, he is a standout contributor to the highest-scoring team in the AFL.

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