The AFL rolls on with Round 9 promising another enthralling week of footy. From top-of-the-table clashes to resurgent teams looking to solidify their positions, there’s plenty to consider when making your tips. Here’s a breakdown of each match, with insights to guide your tipping decisions:

Thursday Night Footy:

• Carlton vs. Melbourne (MCG): This is a classic rivalry with both teams desperate for a win. Carlton, despite a strong start, has faltered recently, while Melbourne is yet to truly click. The Blues have the home ground advantage, but Melbourne’s experience might just edge them over the line. Tip: Melbourne

Friday Night Footy:

• Geelong Cats vs. Port Adelaide (Marvel Stadium): This blockbuster features the top-of-the-table Cats against a resurgent Port Adelaide. Geelong boasts a potent forward line, but Port’s midfield is arguably the best in the competition. This could be a high-scoring affair, but the Cats’ home ground advantage might be the deciding factor. Tip: Geelong Cats

Saturday Afternoon Delights:

• Fremantle vs. Sydney Swans (UTas Stadium): Both teams come into this match off strong wins. Fremantle’s defensive woes have seemingly been addressed, while the Swans boast a well-oiled ball movement system. The Dockers’ home ground advantage could be crucial, but the Swans’ overall form is hard to ignore. Tip: Sydney Swans
• Hawthorn vs. St Kilda (MCG): This is a battle between two teams desperate to avoid the bottom of the ladder. Hawthorn showed glimpses of promise last round, while St Kilda finally registered their first win. This is a tough one to call, but Hawthorn might just have the edge at the MCG. Tip: Hawthorn
• Essendon vs. GWS Giants (Marvel Stadium): This match pits two young sides with plenty of potential. Essendon’s midfield has been a revelation, while the Giants are still searching for consistency. The Bombers’ home ground advantage and current form makes them the slight favorite. Tip: Essendon

Saturday Night Match:

• Richmond vs. Western Bulldogs (MCG): This traditional rivalry promises fireworks. Richmond is a team on the rise, while the Bulldogs are desperate to bounce back from a heavy defeat. The Tigers’ home ground advantage is significant, and their current form is hard to ignore. Tip: Richmond

Sunday Funday:

• Gold Coast Suns vs. North Melbourne (Metricon Stadium): This clash features two teams battling for respect. The Suns have shown flashes of brilliance, while North Melbourne is rebuilding. The home ground advantage for the Suns could be decisive in a tight contest. Tip: Gold Coast Suns
• Collingwood vs. West Coast Eagles (MCG): This is a match between two inconsistent teams. Collingwood needs to find their winning ways, while the Eagles are struggling to adapt to life without key players. This is a tough one to call, but the Pies’ home ground advantage might just be enough. Tip: Collingwood
• Adelaide Crows vs. Brisbane Lions (Adelaide Oval): This final match of the round sees the Crows take on the red-hot Lions. Adelaide has been inconsistent, while Brisbane is playing some of the best footy in the competition. The Lions’ superior form and away record makes them the clear favorite. Tip: Brisbane Lions

Players to Watch:

• Sam Powell-Pepper (Melbourne): The young Demon has been in electric form, providing a spark in their midfield.
• Jeremy Cameron (Geelong Cats): The star forward is due for a big bag of goals and could lead the Cats to victory.
• Lance Franklin (Sydney Swans): The ageless wonder is still a threat in the forward line and could be crucial for the Swans.
• Jack Ginnivan (Collingwood): The young gun continues to impress and could be the difference for the Pies.
• Lachie Neale (Brisbane Lions): The Brownlow Medal favorite continues to dominate midfields and is a key player for the Lions.

Remember, these are just tips! The beauty of AFL is its unpredictability. Injuries, late outs, and a touch of magic can all change the course of a game. So, do your research, consider the latest team news, and most importantly, enjoy the footy!