Digby Beacham’s AFL Preview: Round 11

Posted on May 28, 2021May 28, 2021 | Posted by Digby Beacham

FRIDAY

Western Bulldogs v Melbourne, Marvel Stadium, 5.50pm

It’s impossible to be critical of the manner in which these two sides have gone about their business over the opening 10 rounds of the season. As a result we are presented with a heavyweight showdown befitting a sold-out crowd, yet will be played before empty stands.

The most intriguing aspect of this match-up surrounds which side can impose itself on the contest and display the selfless nature that has served it well throughout the year.

The Bulldogs prey on the weak or inefficient, as was the case against St Kilda, with Marcus Bontempelli simply sublime. As for Melbourne, they can consider themselves a bit stiff in losing to Adelaide. The big question with the Dees is whether they’re as clinical right now as they were earlier in the year.

VERDICT: Western Bulldogs by 13 points

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SATURDAY

Collingwood v Geelong, MCG, 11.45am

Despite all their flaws on and off the field this season, Collingwood have remained competitive each week they have run out. And while it is hard to see them upsetting Geelong, it would be a surprise if they didn’t ask the Cats plenty of questions.

The Magpies competed well against Port Adelaide, but their inefficiency in front of goal proved telling. As for Geelong, their past two weeks following the mauling of Richmond have been so-so, labouring to wins over St Kilda and Gold Coast.

Mitch Duncan (concussion) joins Patrick Dangerfield (ankle) on the sidelines and there are fitness concerns over Cam Guthrie (shoulder). But the Cats’ overall class looms large, as does their forward options.

VERDICT: Geelong by 23 points

Brisbane v GWS, Gabba, 12.10pm

GWS have shown a wonderful ability to defy the odds in the past six weeks after a shoddy start to their campaign. They are going to have to do so again if they’re to take down Brisbane on home soil.

The Lions are rolling (just ask Richmond) and look extremely well placed to expose the lack of talls in the Giants’ back half with news that gun young WA defender Sam Taylor (ankle) is set for an extended stint on the sidelines.

Brisbane have unearthed two quality youngsters in Brandon Starcevich and Zac Bailey and when you factor in the proven performers, along with Hugh McCluggage’s breakout year, it is easy to see why they are favourites.

VERDICT: Brisbane by 30 points

St Kilda v North Melbourne, Marvel Stadium, 2.35pm

There will be more eyeballs on this match than we would have expected only as recently as last weekend. For that, the television broadcasters can thank St Kilda.

The Saints, not for the first time this year, turned it up when challenged by the Western Bulldogs. It was insipid and coach Brett Ratten will be demanding a response. Hence the heightened interest from neutral observers.

North Melbourne should be well aware of what is coming. In saying that, they weren’t able to match motors with Essendon last Sunday and need to respond themselves.

VERDICT: St Kilda by 19 points

West Coast v Essendon, Optus Stadium, 5.40pm

As sure as night follows day, West Coast remain questionable on the road, yet a formidable force at Optus Stadium. Good thing for them they are back in familiar surrounds against Essendon here.

The Bombers are building nicely, but play a brand of football that is not suited to inclement conditions. If the rain that is forecast to hit actually descends on the metropolitan area, their problems could be exposed.

But West Coast also need to address the way they go about their business. It would help if the club developed a far more ruthless edge than we are seeing and the pressure stakes and contested football numbers improved significantly.

VERDICT: West Coast by 38 points

Gold Coast v Hawthorn, SCG, 5.40pm

Those fans who love an old-fashioned shootout … don’t tune in here. Neither Gold Coast nor Hawthorn are all that interested in drowning their opposition with goals. Now factor in the tighter confines of the SCG, which can make games a hard watch.

It is why this contest will have very little interest to those without an emotional attachment to the Suns or Hawks. Hawthorn’s woes were extended by Carlton last weekend, the loss compounded by Jaeger O’Meara’s concussion.

His absence will more than likely see Touk Miller find his way to Tom Mitchell, who runs up big numbers and is often the link from defence to the midfield.

VERDICT: Gold Coast by 18 points

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SUNDAY

Richmond v Adelaide, Giants Stadium, 12.10pm

The entire football community is waiting. And waiting. And waiting. The question is being asked quietly. That question? Are Richmond over the hill? Is their premiership window shut?

It would take a brave person to boldly declare yes. However, the signs are ominous. On top of several injuries and suspensions to key midfielders, the premiers now face the prospect of no Tom Lynch (knee) for an extended period.

His absence will be felt, although it probably doesn’t resonate a great deal here. The Tigers have recalled a swag of heavy hitters and look poised to build into their premiership defence.

VERDICT: Richmond by 32 points

Sydney v Carlton, SCG, 1.20pm

On more than one occasion this year, Carlton have had an opportunity to make a statement against a top-eight side — and failed.

This is another chance for David Teague’s men to prove they are actually worthy of a spot in September. Taking on a Swans outfit though that is on the rebound at their preferred place of employment is not the easiest of assignments.

Lance Franklin will present a major issue for the Blues defence, which has been porous often in 2021. Think Sydney and you automatically think a well-organised side. Can we say the same about the Blues?

VERDICT: Sydney by 19 points

Port Adelaide v Fremantle, Adelaide Oval, 3.20pm

Fremantle ventured to South Australia earlier in the year and left with the four points. Meeting the Crows at Adelaide Oval however is a more accommodating task than Port Adelaide.

The Power have come off a peg or two in recent weeks, the lack of potency around the stoppages and inside the centre square being exposed by Scott Lycett’s unavailability.

Fremantle would like to think Sean Darcy can exploit that and the return of Andy Brayshaw helps, but the Power remain in the premiership conversation for a reason.

VERDICT: Port Adelaide by 29 points

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