Fremantle v Sydney Swans AFL tips & best odds | Round 2 preview

Brisbane v West Coast best bets

Fremantle v Sydney Round 2 preview

Fremantle Dockers will welcome the Sydney Swans to Optus Stadium in a key AFL Round 2 clash on Saturday night.

The Dockers are looking to bounce back after a disappointing Round 1 loss to Geelong, where they struggled to convert opportunities and were outplayed in all quarters apart from the third. Justin Longmuir’s side will be aiming to tighten things up defensively and make better use of the ball as they return home to Perth.

Sydney, meanwhile, pushed Brisbane all the way in Round 1, falling just two points short in a thrilling contest at the SCG. Dean Cox’s squad showed plenty of fight, with Isaac Heeney and Chad Warner standing out, and the Swans will be confident of bouncing back despite the long trip west.

Top Australian bookmakers are predicting a close contest, and if Fremantle can make the most of their forward-50 entries, this could turn into a thrilling matchup.

Dockers v Swans R2 team news

Star recruit Shai Bolton is pushing for a Fremantle debut after missing their opener due to some leg soreness suffered in preseason.

The former Tiger looms as a straight swap for small forward Sam Switkowski, who was subbed out in Round 1 with a groin injury.

Michael Walters will miss at least another month after scans revealed more significant bone bruising in his knee than first expected, while ruckman Sean Darcy continues his recovery from ankle surgery.

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The Swans have some holes to fill after losing both Justin McInerney (suspension) and Lewis Melican (groin) from their loss to the Lions.

Aaron Francis or Peter Ladhams could come in for Melican, with Tom McCartin a chance to shift back to defence, while Angus Sheldrick might be the man to cover McInerney in midfield.

With Callum Mills, Errol Gulden, Taylor Adams, Robbie Fox, Harry Cunningham and Logan McDonald all sidelined, Sydney’s depth is being sorely tested early in the season.

Fremantle v Sydney predictions

Fremantle return to Optus Stadium looking to turn around their season, and they’re solid value to win by a controlled margin. With their elite defensive setup and ability to strangle teams at home, Freo look like a great chance to win by 39 or less at $2.25 with online bookmakers.

Jake Lloyd remains a consistent presence off half-back for Sydney, and he should still find plenty of the footy even under pressure. With his high workrate and consistent outings against Fremantle, he is great value for 25 or more disposals at $4.75 with Picklebet.

Sydney forward Will Hayward has been very consistent against Freo. Even in a tough matchup, he’s well worth a look to kick three or more goals at $4.60 with Neds.

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