Lachie’s AFL Round 20 Preview: Essendon Bombers v Sydney Swans | Betting Preview 

Essendon Bombers vs Sydney Swans @ Marvel Stadium – Saturday 7:25 pm

In an eagerly anticipated clash at Marvel Stadium, the Essendon Bombers will face off against the Sydney Swans on Saturday evening. Both teams find themselves closely positioned on the ladder, making this game a crucial one as they battle to stay within striking distance of the finals.

The Bombers, currently sitting 11th on the ladder, have had a mixed season so far. Their promising start had fans excited, but unfortunately, they have struggled to maintain that momentum, losing four out of their last five games. Despite displaying tenacity in their close contests against strong teams like Port Adelaide and Adelaide, they suffered significant defeats at the hands of Fremantle, Geelong, and the Western Bulldogs. The need to get back on the winning track is evident, and they will be eager to utilize their home ground advantage at Marvel Stadium, where they boast an impressive 4-1 record (4-0 vs interstate sides)

On the other side, the Sydney Swans, positioned just below the Bombers in 12th place, have shown signs of resurgence after a surprisingly slow start to the season. With an 8-1-9 record, the Swans have regained momentum, going 3-1-1 in their last five games. Their ability to grind out results in tight contests has been noteworthy, exemplified by their recent impressive victory against West Coast. While they lack some key tall talent, the Swans make up for it with their solid team approach and tenacious contest-based game style.

When it comes to form, the Bombers have faced some struggles lately, raising concerns among their supporters. In contrast, the Swans have consistently kept games close, with most of their matches being within three goals or less for the duration of the game. This ability to stay competitive throughout every game gives the Swans an edge in terms of performance.

The game plan and strategy for the Bombers rely heavily on their speed and running ability. Their players thrive on carrying the ball, using their leg speed to create attacking opportunities. However, they face a challenge in the lack of key tall talent outside of Peter Wright. Nonetheless, their home ground advantage at Marvel Stadium, known for its fast-paced games under the roof, plays to their strengths. In contrast, whilst the Swans possess quality players all over the ground, they’re more attuned to a contested game, given they’re used to playing on the tight SCG ground, and don’t have the talls to make the Bombers hurt.

With both teams looking to improve their standings, this clash promises to be a closely contested battle. The Bombers’ home ground advantage could prove crucial in this encounter, especially considering the Swans’ limited ability to exploit Essendon’s lack of tall talent. Despite their recent struggles, the Bombers have shown enough promise at Marvel Stadium to suggest they could secure a hard-fought victory.

In what is likely to be a tense and tight affair, a narrow margin is anticipated. Based on the home ground advantage and the Swans’ personnel limitations, I’m giving the slight edge to the Dons and will take them at the +9.5 handicap.