With both teams yet to record a win there is plenty on the line when the Saints and Pies meet on Thursday night at the MCG.
Best Bet
We noted in our pre-season assessment of Collingwood that any drop off from the manic pressure of 2023 could see the reigning premiers slip dramatically and so far that has proven to be the case.
The Pies have been far too easy to score against, giving up 114 points to the Giants and then 102 to the Swans.
St Kilda are likely an easier challenge but the Saints have generally played the Pies well in recent years. They only lost by six points last year in Adelaide, by 17 in 2022 and actually beat Collingwood the year before that.
The Saints did lose in Round 1 to Geelong but there were plenty of positives they could take from that game, having almost stolen it with an impressive last quarter comeback. They struggled to move the ball along that very narrow ground, but their offence and defence both showed excellent signs.
Ross Lyon’s side also welcome back Jack Sinclair, probably their best player and certainly their best ball user, to help provide some class around the middle.
This has all the hallmarks of a very close game and the Saints with the points look a strong bet.
Same Game Multi
St. Kilda captain Jack Steele started off hot last week before cooling late, but still hit 25.
The Pies may have started the year slowly but Nick Daicos hasn’t, with 34 and 37 in the first two weeks.
Max King looked very good last week in front of goal despite limited opportunities.
Value Bet
The key forwards have feasted against the Pies so far this year. Logan McDonald had four last week, and Jesse Hogan the same prior to that. Saints spearhead King looks a nice price for a similar haul here.
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