North Melbourne have ‘won’ back-to-back wood spoons and are the bookies’ favourites to earn one other one this yr – however they’re nonetheless thought-about favourites to knock off West Coast in spherical one.
The Kangaroos have been wound in to $1.77 favourites to beat the Eagles ($2.05) with TABTouch as punters again Alastair Clarkson to have a direct impression within the Marvel Stadium conflict.
However, with TabTouch saying about two-thirds of cash coming in is backing West Coast regardless of final week’s hefty pre-season loss, the chances for the March 18 recreation are anticipated to be nearer to even cash come bouncedown.
The Kangaroos have gained simply six video games prior to now two years, however one in all them was the corresponding fixture in spherical two final yr when an Eagles facet decimated by COVID and accidents – and taking part in 5 WAFL gamers – misplaced by 15 factors.
It comes as West Coast coach Adam Simpson prepares to tackle his former mentor in Clarkson, having frolicked underneath the four-time premiership coach at Hawthorn.
Simpson has a 6-5 document teaching towards Clarkson, however only a 5-5 document towards North Melbourne.
Former West Coast and Hawthorn star Xavier Ellis mentioned his former coach in Clarkson would take a look at how Adelaide picked aside West Coast when formulating a plan.
“A lot of pressure, play the game in the forward half and probably the blueprint that they set last year West Coast, Clarko will try to leave and congestion and spread quick smart,” Ellis mentioned.
“From experiences, I think Clarko’s record of coaching young teams and young players is pretty good.
“There was a stage there where he only just drafted (Jordan) Lewis, (Lance) Franklin, (Jarryd) Roughead, (Grant) Birchall, (Cyril) Rioli. He’s very good at getting the best out of kids whether it takes six months of pre-season or it might take two years.”
Ellis mentioned after each groups gained simply two video games final season, the consequence for spherical one can be toss of the coin.
“I think it’s the great leave it alone and see what unfolds,” Ellis mentioned.
TABTouch additionally revealed Brownlow medallist Patrick Cripps and Lachie Neale (each $9) are being strongly backed to say their second Charlie, whereas Fremantle vice-captain Andrew Brayshaw ($11) and final yr’s Rising Star Nick Daicos ($21) are additionally among the many finest backed.
For the Rising Star, Brisbane’s Will Ashcroft is the most effective backed and has are available from $4.50 to $2, whereas West Coast’s Reuben Ginbey has been wound in barely to $17 off the again of his sturdy displaying towards Adelaide.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
