AFL Finals: Collingwood vs GWS betting picks & top odds

The electrifying atmosphere of the 2023 AFL finals series reaches its peak this Friday night as the Collingwood Magpies clash with the GWS Giants in a high-stakes preliminary final showdown at the iconic MCG.

Two weeks ago, the Magpies demonstrated their mettle by clinching a hard-fought victory against Melbourne, securing themselves a well-deserved weekend off. While their early lead was formidable, the Demons staged a valiant comeback, keeping the Magpies on their toes. The Magpies’ defensive prowess shone, restricting the Demons to a mere seven goals, a testament to their unyielding pressure. However, with only 60 points on the board, the Magpies will be eager to sharpen their offensive edge as they face a GWS side that’s notched up over 90 points in their last four outings.

The Giants, on the other hand, ventured to South Australia last weekend and engineered a stunning upset against the Port Adelaide Power with a 23-point victory. A commanding second quarter, where they notched up five consecutive goals, catapulted them to a 29-point lead at halftime. Despite the Power’s best efforts, they never managed to close the gap, as the Giants maintained a comfortable distance throughout. Stephen Coniglio’s masterful performance with 30 disposals and two goals, coupled with Jesse Hogan’s four-goal display up front, were instrumental in the Giants’ triumph.

Buoyed by two impressive wins this finals series, the Giants enter this clash brimming with confidence. Nevertheless, they face a fresh Collingwood side backed by a fervent MCG crowd.

In a much-anticipated return, Collingwood’s rising star, Nick Daicos, is set to rejoin the lineup after a five-week hiatus due to a knee injury. Conversely, the Magpies will sorely miss veteran midfielder Taylor Adams, sidelined with a hamstring injury sustained during training.

The Giants are expected to field an unchanged lineup from their victorious outing against the Power. The only question mark lies over ruckman Kieran Briggs, who is anticipated to play despite a shoulder injury.

Collingwood vs GWS Giants betting predictions

This titanic clash is poised to become an instant classic, with both teams vying for a shot at AFL glory. The Magpies, having displayed exceptional form throughout 2023, enjoy the added advantage of their passionate home crowd. Backing the Magpies at -175.44 with Bovada seems like a solid choice.

For GWS, Stephen Coniglio stands as a linchpin, entering the match in the form of his career. Averaging an impressive 28.4 disposals per game in 2023, he’s also been a scoring threat with six goals in his last four appearances. Count on Coniglio to amass 30 or more disposals at enticing odds of +108 with leading AFL betting sites.

Following a subpar performance against the Demons, Collingwood’s Jamie Elliott is poised for a redemption arc. With GWS fielding a formidable defence, expect the Magpies’ forwards to create opportunities for Elliott to capitalise on. Betting on Elliott to bag two or more goals, priced at -178.57, could be a wise move.

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