Sydney Swans vs Brisbane Lions: Predictions, Odds & Betting Tips

The Lions head back to the SCG on Saturday, the site of a 44 point drubbing at the hands of the Swans way back in Round 1. 

The back to back premiers had their revenge at the Gabba in late June when they ran out winners by a very similar margin, setting up a fascinating rubber match with team selections at the forefront of everyone’s mind. 

Hugh McCluggage is fit and ready to return to Brisbane’s midfield, but who misses out ahead of Team List Thursday will be fascinating with names like Oscar Allen, Darcy Fort, and Jarrod Berry potentially on the chopping block. 

With top line talent missing, the Swans are also in for a potential boost with Justin McInerney and Joel Amartey both a chance at lacing the boots up off long injury stints. 

For a pick, the Swans winning and maybe making it as far as the Grand Final would go down as one of the greatest stories in footy. But when you stop and look at Brisbane’s recent three-game winning streak, it’s obvious the Lions have clicked into top gear with demoralising victories over Hawthorn, Gold Coast, and Collingwood. 

The goals have been flowing and it hasn’t been just one guy piling on the points, with All-Australians Logan Morris and Zac Bailey, plus Charlie Cameron and even Eric Hipwood enjoying the spoils. 

Down back, Harris Andrews has returned to career-best form, not to mention Will Ashcroft, who is said to have a chip on his shoulder after missing out on AA selection last week. 

All up, the Swans still have the pieces to make a game of this, but the Lions’ depth and talent looks too much. 

Prediction: Lions to Cover (-25.5 Points) @ $1.90 

Value: Lions 40+ @ $2.55 

Player Pick: Will Ashcroft 35+ Disposals @ $2.95