MCG will play host to Friday's Round 24 AFL game between Essendon Bombers and Collingwood Magpies. The game kicks off at 7:50 pm with Collingwood Magpies heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Essendon Bombers vs. Collingwood Magpies game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Friday August 25, 2023 at 7:50 pm

Where: MCG

Bet: Bet On This Match HERE

Essendon Bombers vs Collingwood Magpies Odds

Essendon Bombers vs Collingwood Magpies Preview

It’s tough to know if this season has been a success or a failure for the Bombers, but on the back of last week’s embarrassing 126-point loss to the Giants, the Dons still have a chance to salvage something with an eye toward season 2024 on Friday night.

Brad Scott seemingly had his new club humming towards a finals berth six weeks ago, but it feels like the focus has shifted slightly from the on-field product, to what’s going on behind the scenes.

Injuries to some key names down the stretch hasn’t helped, but after playing Collingwood to within two goals on ANZAC Day earlier in the year, maybe the Bombers of old will turn up to throw one last spanner in the finals works.

For Collingwood, this is just as much a prove-it game coming off another double-digit loss to the Lions last week.

Darcy Moore’s absence was felt massively down back, and although they’ve done enough to secure a home final, the Pies still need to win this week to lock up the minor premiership.

Nothing about the Bombers over the last month inspires confidence, particularly after giving up a whopping 70 inside 50 entries to GWS last week – which in turn resulted in nine goals to Jesse Hogan.

The Pies have question marks written all over them, but with Collingwood remaining one of the toughest teams to move the ball against, expect a big response from Craig McRae’s side with the pointy end of the season almost here.

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