Digby Beacham’s AFL Preview: Round 17

Posted on July 3, 2025July 3, 2025 | Posted by Digby Beacham

THURSDAY

North Melbourne v Western Bulldogs, Marvel Stadium, 5.30pm

A couple of steps forward, but one mighty big step back. That is perhaps the best way to summarise North Melbourne’s past few weeks, unfortunately the most recent outing against Hawthorn being one that is totally unacceptable.

It raises the stakes for this clash with the Western Bulldogs, who haven’t lost to the Kangaroos since 2019. The Bulldogs have got their challenges with personnel, but you wouldn’t know it given the campaign they have put together.

A feature of their season has been an ability to shred sides lower than them on the ladder, particularly through the midfield. If that happens again here, the forward line, spearheaded by Sam Darcy, will have a night out.

VERDICT: Western Bulldogs 1-39 points

Same Game Multi: Luke Davies-Uniacke, Bailey Dale and Ed Richards to have 25+ disposals @ $3.35*

*Odds correct at the time of publication.

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