Roughead & Smith player specials – Essendon vs. Hawthorn odds and tips

By Nathan Marotta
Saturday, 5th May, 2:10 pm AEDT, 2018, MCG, Watch on the Fox Footy Network.

One of the AFL‘s most famous rivalries — forged in fire during the 1980’s — will be reignited once again on Saturday when the Bombers go head-to-head with the Hawks at the MCG.

Essendon is currently in its worst form since the 2016 season where it was stripped of its stars. With a near full-strength team, the Bombers are in crisis and close to kissing their finals aspirations goodbye.

No one at Essendon has escaped scrutiny. Coach John Worsfold’s strategy is under the microscope and star players such as Joe Daniher have performed below expectations, contributing to the inconsistent start.

Currently sitting in fourth position on the ladder with four wins and two losses, Hawthorn sits on the opposite end of the ladder after an impressive — even surprising — start to the season.

The Hawks have had a series of debutants that have delivered at the top level, making the most of the opportunities given to them. Harry Morrison was very stiff not to be awarded the NAB rising star nominee for round six, after an impressive 25 touches and one-goal performance.

Both clubs are in contrasting situations. Whether Essendon can pull themselves together on Saturday is the biggest question to be asked. Or will Hawthorn continue to play strong, winning football?

Let’s move on now to the tips for Saturday’s clash.

Essendon Bombers vs. Hawthorn Hawks Round 7 – Player Specials Tips

Jarryd Roughead to kick 2 goals @ $1.65 with William Hill

If you needed Jarryd Roughead to kick a few goals last week, you would have spent the whole game in a burning rage. Every time Roughy was in perfect position to score, he would either pass the footy or be ignored by his teammates. This week will be a completely different story. Roughy was off against the Saints, but this week will be a different story. Expect Roughy’s hard work to be rewarded with at least two goals this week.

Devon Smith to lay 6 Tackles @ $1.55 with William Hill

Devon Smith is the only upside that the Bombers have had in 2018. One of the best pressure players in the league, Devon specialises in applying pressure, mostly by tackling. He currently sits fifth on the total tackles ladder across the league. Against the O’Meara and Mitchell combo the Hawks use, Smith will need to stand up and negate their impact. We think Smith is a brilliant option to add to your multi.

Essendon Bombers vs. Hawthorn Hawks Round 7 – Total Goals Tips

Essendon 11.5 goals Over/Under

Over @ $1.68 with Ladbrokes

If the Bombers don’t step up and begin to play quality football, they could find themselves dropping lower and lower down the ladder. We’re tipping a Joe Daniher form reversal to ignite a higher-scoring Essendon effort. Against the inexperienced backline that the Hawks are currently playing with, the Bombers scoring 12 goals is more than likely.

Hawthorn 13.5 goals Over/Under

Under @ $1.77 with Ladbrokes

The way the Hawks played against the Saints was pedestrian at times, despite their win. Only a few players in the Hawks team were switched on from start to finish. Missing experienced small forwards Paul Puopolo and Cyril Rioli will catch up with Hawthorn, starting on Saturday.

Essendon Bombers vs. Hawthorn Hawks Round 7 – Total Points Tips

Totals points to be between 160-170 @ $6.00 with CrownBet

We’re feeling gutsy this week and have put the overs and unders away for this final tip. This game will be close but low scoring. In our eyes, a final score within the 160-170 range is about right. The $6.00 odds are the best value throughout this article and we have confidence that this bet will come to fruition.

Bombers vs. Hawks Match Predictions

Match Result: Hawthorn to Win @ $1.62 with Sportsbet
Line Betting: Hawthorn -8.5 @ $1.92 with Sportsbet

The Bombers haven’t proven to us that they are capable of beating a quality side during this current form slump. Hawthorn find a way each week to impress us and should finish this match as the winner. If Essendon decide to bounce back this week, we still believe the Hawks will be victors as they will enjoy the fierce competition.