Sydney v Essendon AFL R2 betting tips | Saturday, March 23

Swans v Bombers best bets

Sydney v Essendon AFL R2 match preview

The undefeated Swans will start as red-hot favourites when they host Essendon at the SCG on Saturday night in round two of the 2024 AFL season.

Sydney are the form side of the competition after easily dispatching Collingwood in round one and are now listed on the second line of premiership betting behind cross-town rivals GWS. The Swans had far too much firepower for the reigning premiers, cruising to a 33-point victory at the MCG.

Tom Papley copped a knock to the knee late in that game, but Sydney’s gun small forward appears right to play. Veteran on-ballers Luke Parker (arm) and Taylor Adams (knee) are still sidelined, which means Isaac Heeney should spend plenty of time in the midfield again this weekend.

MORE TIPS: AFL R2 PREVIEW & PREDICTIONS

The Bombers have made a single appearance in 2024, registering a hard-fought win over the Hawks. Scores were level heading into the fourth quarter, where Essendon’s dominance in the centre clearances finally won through. The stats were otherwise tight, with the Bombers losing the inside 50 count, winning the tackle count, and kicking more truly in front of goal than their opponents.

Essendon have lost young defender Zach Reid (hamstring) and fix-it man Matt Guelfi (calf) to injury, while star halfback Mason Redman is suspended. Darcy Parish is set to undergo a fitness test after missing last week, while midfielder Ben Hobbs and ruckman Sam Draper are both available after featuring in the VFL last weekend.

Swans v Essendon AFL R2 betting predictions

The Swans look primed to put up a big total at the SCG. They are full of run with a multitude of paths to goal and should be able to cover the 28.5-point line. Confidence within the squad is high and we might see their full potential on display.

Sydney ruckman Brodie Grundy looks at home among his new colleagues but has yet to slot his first goal in the red and white. If he can drift forward with the flow of play, Grundy should be able to find a favourable marking matchup and get his hands on the ball within scoring range. The +190 anytime goalkicker odds at Neds offer good value.

If the Swans can break the shackles and post a hefty total, this game should go over the 166.5 total points line. The Bombers are also fielding an attacking line-up, and with fine weather forecast, this game might open up and deliver a classic shootout.

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