Western Bulldogs vs Collingwood Prediction, Tips & Odds

The first-ever AFL Wildcard Round will kick off with a Friday night blockbuster between the Western Bulldogs and Collingwood at the MCG.

Despite finishing above the Pies in 8^th spot on the ladder, the Dogs enter this one as $1.98 outsiders after going winless from Round 21-23. They did, however, find form at the right time with a 21-point win over Melbourne last weekend on the back of dominant displays from midfield stars Ed Richards (30 disposals and one goal) and Marcus Bontempelli (27 and 2).

Tim English is pushing to be available ahead of schedule after missing the past fortnight with an MCL injury, while Aaron Naughton is expected to be available after injuring his ankle in the win over Melbourne.

As for the $1.85 Pies, their 63-point loss to Brisbane came with added insult to injury that includes a 2–3-week hamstring injury to Scott Pendlebury. Throw in a fresh knee complaint to Brayden Maynard and it’s hard to see the Pies recovering the lost experience in a key game.

Pat Lipinski and Isaac Quaynor are likely to return for the Pies, but the price about a Bont-led Dogs outfit is too good to ignore on the big stage.