The Gabba will play host to Saturday's Round 5 AFL game between Brisbane Lions and Essendon Bombers. The game kicks off at 7:25 pm with Brisbane Lions heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Brisbane Lions vs. Essendon Bombers game and give you our free tips and bets.
When: Saturday April 17, 2021 at 7:25 pm
Where: The Gabba
Bet: Bet On This Match HERE
Brisbane Lions vs Essendon Bombers Odds
Brisbane Lions vs Essendon Bombers Preview
After a longer than expected road trip down South, the mighty Brisbane Lions (proudly sponsored by Neds) return to the Gabba to take on the Bombers this Saturday.
It’s set to be a massive night at the Gabba with the prospect of Lion Joe Daniher playing against his old side, the 20-year anniversary of the first premiership of the three-peat and the one you’ve all been waiting for: The Neds Mark for Money at half-time.
Both sides are coming off a loss last week and will be eager to get the win.
Brisbane will be glad to be back in the Sunshine State after experiencing the finest weather that Ballarat has to offer.
The Bulldogs were simply too good for them in their 19 point victory, but there was still some solid performances from Lachie Neale, Hugh McCluggage and Daniel Rich.
A rare goal from Harris Andrews was also in the mix – a nice result if anyone backed him as an anytime goal kicker!
Essendon had a spirited performance against the Swans last week, only to have their hearts broken by Lance Franklin – yet again. The Bombers have played some excellent football so far this season, but have let go of some significant leads which could cost them as the year progresses.
The Lions are the clear $1.24 favourites, but I wouldn’t write off Essendon completely in this one given their ability to remain competitive in just about every game they’ve played.
With a 1-3 start to the season, the Brisbane Lions (proudly sponsored by Neds) need to get their skates on.
Like the Lions of 2001, perhaps they should take some inspiration from Leigh Matthews/Arnold Schwarzenegger when playing Essendon with the mantra “If it bleeds, we can kill it.”
Getting back to the Gabba and getting back on the winners’ list – Fages and the boys need to make the most of it.
Content provided by Neds
Head To Head Bet
We're tipping Brisbane Lions to win at $1.25 odds.
First Goal Scorer
First Goal Scorer: Joe Daniher at $8.00.
Brisbane Lions vs Essendon Bombers Teams
LIONS
B: D.Rich, H.Andrews, C.Ah Chee
HB: D.Gardiner, M.Adams, G.Birchall
C: H.McCluggage, D.Zorko, M.Robinson
HF: Z.Bailey, J.Daniher, L.McCarthy
F: D.McStay, E.Hipwood, C.Cameron
FOLL: O.McInerney, J.Lyons, L.Neale
I/C: J.Berry, J.Prior, R.Lester, B.Starcevich
EMG: D.Robertson, E.Smith, T.Berry, T.Fullarton
IN: D.McStay, J.Prior
OUT: T.Berry, D.Robertson, T.Fullarton (all omitted)
BOMBERS
B: J.Laverde, Z.Reid, A.Francis
HB: M.Redman, J.Ridley, D.Heppell
C: Z.Merrett, K.Langford, D.Smith
HF: A.Waterman, H.Jones, W.Snelling
F: A.Perkins, C.Hooker, A.McDonald-Tipungwuti
FOLL: N.Cox, A.McGrath, B.Ham
I/C: N.Hind, D.Parish, P.Wright, J.Stringer
EMG: M.Guelfi, N.Cahill, A.Phillips, D.Zaharakis
IN: Z.Reid, M.Redman
OUT: M.Guelfi, D.Zaharakis, B.Zerk-Thatcher (all omitted)