AFL Round 9 Tips & Preview - Best bets for every Round 9 clash

Hawthorn can make a statement and knock off Fremantle in what shapes as one of the games of the round. The Hawks’ ability to generate repeat inside 50s and dominate territory should expose a Dockers side that can be slow to start and vulnerable when momentum swings. If Hawthorn bring their pressure game and clean up their inefficiency from last week, they can overwhelm Freo in bursts. Hawthorn head-to-head, Jack Ginnivan 2+ goals and Andrew Brayshaw 25+ disposals are the key plays.

Brisbane should be far too strong for Carlton and can pile on a big score at the Gabba. Their midfield depth, led by Lachie Neale and Will Ashcroft, will dominate possession and generate repeat inside 50s against a Blues side that has struggled to defend transition and halt momentum. Expect multiple Lions to hit the scoreboard in a blowout. Brisbane 40+, Charlie Cameron 2+ goals and Darcy Wilmot 25+ disposals are the standout plays.

The Western Bulldogs can grind out a tight win in a low-scoring arm wrestle against Port Adelaide. The Power’s defensive structure will keep them in the contest, but the Bulldogs’ midfield class through Marcus Bontempelli should eventually break through. Expect a scrappy, contested battle with limited scoring. Bulldogs head-to-head, total points under, Marcus Bontempelli 25+ disposals and Zak Butters 30+ disposals are the best angles.

Sydney should be far too strong for North Melbourne and can cover the line in what shapes as a high-scoring contest. The Swans’ attacking depth and ability to score from multiple avenues will stretch the Kangaroos’ defence, particularly once the game opens up. North may compete early, but Sydney’s class should take over. Sydney to cover the line with the total points over to be covered, Joel Amartey 3+ goals and Isaac Heeney 25+ disposals are the key plays.

GWS should control this contest and return to the winner’s list against Essendon, but the Bombers can contribute enough on the scoreboard to keep the total high. The Giants’ midfield depth will dominate possession and territory, while Essendon’s defensive issues remain a concern. Expect a free-flowing, high-scoring game. Total points over, Finn Callaghan 30+, Clayton Oliver 30+ disposals and Archie Roberts 30+ disposals are strong plays.

Gold Coast can continue their dominance in Darwin and cover the line against St Kilda. Their ability to handle the conditions, apply pressure and generate scores from turnover gives them a clear edge. The Suns’ record at TIO Stadium is outstanding and should prove decisive again. Gold Coast - line, Christian Petracca 2+ goals and Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera 30+ disposals are the standout selections.

Geelong can edge out Collingwood in another tight MCG contest, with both sides likely to cancel each other out for long periods. The Cats’ ability to generate scoring from multiple avenues and control tempo should prove the difference in a low-scoring game. Geelong head-to-head, total points under, Bailey Smith 30+ disposals and Jack Martin 2+ goals are the best bets.

Melbourne should capitalise on a favourable matchup and record a dominant win over West Coast. Their midfield strength and ability to generate sustained scoreboard pressure will overwhelm an Eagles side that has struggled defensively and lacks scoring power. Expect the Demons to take control early and run away with it. Melbourne 40+, Jacob van Rooyen 2+ goals and Kozzie Pickett 20+ disposals and a goal are the key plays.

Adelaide should prove too strong for Richmond and can control the contest through midfield and efficiency going forward. The Tigers’ win last week was a step in the right direction, but they face a far tougher challenge here against a Crows side that defends well and takes its chances. Expect a controlled performance from Adelaide in a lower-scoring game. Total points under, Jordan Dawson 25+ disposals and Josh Rachele 2+ goals are the best plays.