Back for another week, the SEN.com.au team gives you an insight into how every game will play out across the weekend.
Labelling something a ‘certainty’ in any sport is fraught with danger.
But we’ll attempt to find some anyway.
Here is what we consider certainties for the two Friday night games to kick off Round 9.
Richmond versus Geelong
Prestia and Martin to combine for 40+ disposals and 2+ goals
Dion Prestia found scoring form in a more attacking role against West Coast last week.
He kicked three goals from 23 disposals in a sharp performance, while Dustin Martin also got amongst it with 27 touches and a goal.
The Tigers must beat Geelong tonight to keep their season alive, therefore need two of their better players to stand up.
What’s more, it’s Prestia’s 200th game so he should be primed to really have an impact.
We’re backing Dion and Dusty to combine for at least 40 touches and to kick at least two goals between them under the Friday night lights at the ‘G.
Stewart to have 20+ disposals and take 5+ marks
Tom Stewart has once again been as consistent as they come for Geelong.
After his early-season injury, he has resumed normal transmission and is averaging 24 touches and 8.6 marks since his return in Round 3.
He could be public enemy no.1 with Tigers fans tonight following his bump on Prestia last year, but that won’t stop him from getting a kick.
Stewart will assume acting captain responsibilities from Patrick Dangerfield and we expect him to stand up in his absence.
He is unlikely to have a key matchup so could do as he pleases in defence if the Tigers aren’t clever with their ball movement going forward.
Andrew Slevison
West Coast versus Gold Coast
West Coast to kick 60 points
With just 26 players to choose from, again there’s little certain about West Coast.
But in front of their home crowd, the Eagles can manage at least 60 points.
For all the club’s troubles, it’s a mark they’ve reached on all but two occasions this year. Taking out the shocking performance against Carlton in Round 7, West Coast averages over 76 points at Optus Stadium in 2023.
West Coast has also kicked at least 80 points in their last three against the Suns.
On the flip side, Gold Coast has conceded four 100+ scores this year in trying to transition to a more attacking brand.
Noah Anderson to enjoy 25+ disposals and 6+ clearances
At first glance, Anderson has dropped below 26 touches on four occasions this year.
But since Touk Miller went down with a knee injury, Anderson hasn’t gone under 28 disposals and has arguably been the best midfielder in the competition over the last two weeks.
The 22-year-old had 29 possessions the last time he played the Eagles and given West Coast’s injury crisis, Adam Simpson no longer has the depth in the on-ball stocks to tag players.
Anderson should enjoy this free hit to have a fill-up on Friday night.
Seb Mottram
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