West Coast v Fremantle AFL tips & best odds | Round 3 preview

West Coast v Fremantle best bets

West Coast v Fremantle AFL Round 3 preview

The Fremantle Dockers will look to claim local bragging rights when they host the West Coast Eagles in the latest instalment of the Western Derby on Sunday at Optus Stadium.

Freo remain winless after their heartbreaking loss to Sydney in Round 2, and while it’s far from panic stations, some of Justin Longmuir’s coaching calls have come in for some early stick.

This is a team with finals ambitions, however, and the Dockers will want to show their fans they mean business with a dominant display in the Derby.

West Coast started strong in Brisbane last Sunday before fatiguing late, eventually losing by 19 points to the reigning premiers. While they’re showing positive signs under new leadership, the young Eagles face a serious challenge against a more polished Fremantle unit.

Top AFL betting sites have the Dockers as firm favourites, although the odds are a little closer than they might have been if this game was played in the opening week of the season.

Eagles v Dockers AFL R3 team news

Fremantle will be forced into at least one change after Brandon Walker dislocated his shoulder last weekend. Josh Draper could earn a spot in the starting 22, while Karl Worner and Heath Chapman are also in the frame to bolster the backline.

Hayden Young and Sean Darcy are both listed as one-week prospects, and dual Brownlow Medal winner Nat Fyfe is still building fitness through the WAFL. Veteran Michael Walters remains a few weeks away with a knee issue.

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The West Coast Eagles have several players racing the clock. Jake Waterman is unavailable due to back and calf issues, but midfield recruit Jack Graham is expected to return after missing last week with hip soreness.

Draftee Bo Allan is in line for a senior debut after he was name in the extended squad, while Elliot Yeo (leg) and Dom Sheed (knee) remain sidelined.

West Coast v Fremantle AFL predictions

While Fremantle are the safer bet, this Western Derby has potential for fireworks. The Dockers should control territory through their dominant midfield, making Caleb Serong a strong play for 30 or more disposals at $2.05 with online bookmakers.

Josh Treacy has become a key forward target for Freo and will be hard to match up on for the Eagles’ undermanned defence. Back him for three or more goals at $2.50 with Picklebet.

For West Coast, Tim Kelly has been a reliable ball-winner, and with Yeo and Sheed still out, he should see plenty of action. Take him for 25 or more disposals at $2.15 with Neds.

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