Australian Football League Prediction

🏈 Geelong Cats vs Melbourne Demons - Match Preview

⏰ 22 June 2023 - 19:20 GMT +10

🏟 Stadium - GMHBA Stadium

Last weekend witnessed a commendable commencement by the Cats; however, they succumbed to fatigue in the latter half, allowing Port Adelaide to secure a resounding victory of 38 points. Gary Rohan injected some vitality into the forward line by registering three goals, while Tom Hawkins contributed with a brace.

Regrettably, Patrick Dangerfield sustained a rib injury and will be sidelined for the pivotal match. The Cats will be reliant on their midfield brigade, including Mitch Duncan and last year's Norm Smith Medal recipient, Isaac Smith, both of whom have demonstrated adequacy in recent outings.

In a captivating encounter, the Melbourne Demons clinched their second consecutive triumph by narrowly defeating the Collingwood Magpies with a scoreline of 66-62. This showcases the Demons' promising potential.

The Cats previously triumphed over the Demons with a score of 91-63 when they clashed in 2022, putting an end to the latter's three-game winning streak. In their previous ten encounters, the Demons emerged victorious on four occasions, while the Cats celebrated success on six instances.

Melbourne Demons Performance

The Melbourne Demons have exhibited tremendous excellence this season, presently occupying the third position on the ladder, albeit trailing Port Adelaide, who lead by 12 points.

Following a two-match losing streak against Port Adelaide Power and Fremantle Dockers, which threatened to derail their campaign, the Demons regained momentum by prevailing over the Carlton Blues and Collingwood Magpies.

Geelong Cats Performance

The Geelong Cats' performance this season has been markedly underwhelming, with their win-loss record leaning unfavourably as they have suffered more defeats (seven) than victories (six) in the home and away seasons.

For a brief period between early April and early May, they appeared to be recapturing the form that propelled them to the premiership in 2022, securing five consecutive victories. However, their fortunes took a downturn with three consecutive defeats at the hands of the Richmond Tigers, Fremantle Dockers, and GWS Giants.

⚡ Players to watch:

• Christian Petracca has averaged 29 disposals in his past four matches against Geelong.
• Tom Hawkins has kicked eight goals in his past four games against the Demons. He has 31 goals in his past 10 games this season.
• Tom Stewart has had 20+ disposals in 15 of his past 16 games at the venue
• Max Gawn has booted seven goals in his past four games against the Cats.
• Jacob van Rooyen has booted at least one goal in each of Melbourne’s past 11 matches.
• Ollie Henry has kicked at least one goal in each of his last nine games

📋 Match Facts:

• Geelong have won four of their past five against Melbourne at GMHBA Stadium.
• The Demons have a win-loss record of 9-4 in 2023, and Geelong are 6-7.
• Melbourne ranks 9th for average disposals in 2023, and Geelong are 16th.
• Geelong and Melbourne are averaging over 14 goals per game this season, ranking in the top two in that category.