Round 15 – Sal’s Preview: Bombs Away!

Greetings All,

 

That there is now discussion of the Bomber branding at Essendon is not a great surprise given the current circumstances around the globe, in fact it is surprising it has taken this long.  Not quite the same however I recall after 9/11 a handy horse trained by the Freedmans was named The Terrorist – that name change did not take very long at all.  There has been angst around a number of teams in the US where their names have related to their indigenous population such as the Washington Redskins and Atlanta Braves.  The Redskins are now known as The Commanders, the Braves remain but their Tomahawk chop has gone.  Haven’t been to an Essendon home game for a while – one hopes the air raid siren has already gone.  In the end we will end up with the “Same Old” Essendon!

Onto the footy this week and we will see that no matter the mascot names tradition continues.

 

 

Pivotonians (52%) vs Fuschias (48%)

 

Much to chagrin of Demon fans they make the trek down to the Boutique Stadium, however they are well placed for success.  Still without Oliver but able to drop one of their best from the Pies game in Tomlinson for Petty.  High regard for Harrison indeed.  Geelong lose Dangerfield again and his absence has been telling, came back last week and they were going very well until his injury.  No doubt the Cats at home are a tough proposition and they are strong at either end of the ground, however they lack depth and form in the middle so expect Melbourne to win too much of the footy and take this one.

 

 

Lyon’s (44%) vs Gorillas (55%)

Ross Lyon’s Saints get to host Brisbane in the Battle of the Junction Oval tenants – being played in the pristine surrounds of the Loungeroom.  While the Lions have issues at the G they have no such concern at this venue winning 8 of the last 10.  The Saints had their chance against Richmond at the G, once the rain set in it would always be challenge for a Loungeroom based unit.  They will be much more comfortable this week.  Brisbane lose Zorko but should regain McCluggage.  The pattern says St Kilda will win, but going for Brisbane to break the chain and prove too good in their favourite Melbourne haunt.

 

 

Blood-Stained Angels (93%) vs The Corporation (7%)

 

The Eagles get yet another injury with Waterman now on the sidelines – it really is a season to throwaway.  They visit Sydney who have a couple of injury issues including Buddy – but there will not be any issues in winning this one.

 

 

Anchors Away (56%) vs Same Old (44%)

 

Essendon have not played Freo in Perth since 2019 despite some famous encounters over the years.  They get Parish back this to bolster the midfield as they line up for their 5^th win on the trot.  Freo though will be glad to get back home and hopefully also get Sean Darcy back – critical to their chances against the Bomber duo although there is some doubt also about Sam Draper.  The selection very much swings on the pair – expecting Darcy to be in so going with Freo.

 

 

Britannia (71%) vs Charddy Sippers (29%)

 

Adelaide get their wish for a game at the G!  Maybe preferred another opponent but no greater test.  The Pies overran them earlier in the season and will be keen to get back on the winner’s list after losing on the King’s Birthday.  Overall both teams are healthy – while the Crows will enjoy being at the venue not sure they will completely enjoy the experience and expect a Collingwood win.

 

 

Cavill Avenue (74%) vs Mayblooms (26%)

 

While Stuey Dew was lamentable about the Suns 2^nd quarter last week – they were not too bad for the rest of the match.  They host Hawthorn who will be without their skipper and best player in James Sicily.  They were terrific in beating the Lions and showed what a united group they are – their best is good enough.  However no Sicily and the Suns back at the Mansion will be a bridge too far.

No Blues, Go Friars!

Cheers, Sal

 

 

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