On Saturday 22 August 2026, Essendon Bombers play Port Adelaide Power in the AFL. Our model likes 4 bets here. The one it likes most is Angus Clarke (Essendon) Over 9.5 Disposals, priced at -400 when we wrote this. Here is the thinking behind each pick, in plain English.

Angus Clarke (Essendon) Over 9.5 Disposals (-400)

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

When it comes to backing Angus Clarke to surpass 9.5 disposals in the upcoming clash at Marvel Stadium, the numbers paint a compelling picture. Clarke has been a standout performer in his last five home games, averaging 13.8 disposals with a solid 79.8% efficiency. His ability to find space and generate meters gained (268.8 avg.) showcases his impact on the field. With a current hit streak of 5 at home, Clarke consistently contributes in contested possessions (3.2 avg.) and interceptions (2.6 avg.), indicating his involvement in Essendon's midfield battles. Against Port Adelaide, Clarke's form suggests he's primed to maintain his disposal output and play a pivotal role in the Bombers' game plan. Bet confidently on Clarke to deliver over 9.5 disposals and be a key figure in Essendon's midfield dominance.

Darcy Byrne-Jones (Port Adelaide) Over 1.5 player_tackles_over (-227)

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

When it comes to backing a player prop bet, it's essential to delve into the numbers and find that sweet spot where stats meet opportunity. Darcy Byrne-Jones, the defensive stalwart for Port Adelaide Power, is primed to shine in tackles when they face Essendon at Marvel Stadium. Over his last five away games, Byrne-Jones has been a tackling machine, averaging 1.4 tackles per game. Against Essendon specifically, he ramps up his performance, averaging 2 tackles per away game. With the line set at a tantalizing 1.5 tackles, hitting the over seems like a prudent play, especially with Byrne-Jones' recent form and historical performance against the Bombers. When the Power hit the field, expect Byrne-Jones to be in the thick of the action, making life challenging for the Essendon forwards and snagging tackles along the way.

Essendon Bombers vs Port Adelaide Power: Under 44.5 team_totals_h1 (-114)

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

The stage is set at Marvel Stadium as Essendon Bombers gear up to clash with the Port Adelaide Power. Recent trends paint a telling picture for this matchup. Essendon, known for their attacking flair, has been somewhat muted in their last five outings, averaging just under 10 target goals per game. Their offensive potency, usually a force to reckon with, has seen a slight dip, managing an average of 65.8 points in their recent home fixtures. On the other side, the Port Adelaide Power defense, particularly on the road, has been stingy, allowing an average of 103.6 points against them in their last five away games. This defensive resilience could pose a significant challenge for the Bombers in breaching the 44.5 total points line in the first half. With these stats in mind, betting on the Under for Essendon Bombers' team total points seems like a prudent play.

Essendon Bombers vs Port Adelaide Power: Essendon Bombers Win (+105)

Odds available at sportsbet at time of publishing

The Essendon Bombers are primed to snag a win against the Port Adelaide Power at Marvel Stadium. Despite a recent rough patch, the Bombers have shown promise with their ability to generate scoring opportunities, averaging 46.8 Inside50s in their last five home games. Their midfield dominance is evident, boasting an average of 35.8 total clearances and 125.2 contested possessions per game. While their defensive efforts have room for improvement, their offensive prowess, highlighted by an average of 20 shots at goal and 9.8 target goals per game, could tip the scales in their favor. In contrast, Port Adelaide has struggled on the road, conceding an average of 103.6 points against and 49.6 Inside50s per game. With these trends in mind, backing the Essendon Bombers to triumph seems like a smart play.

That is how our model reads Essendon Bombers v Port Adelaide Power. Prices move, so check the price at your bookmaker before you back anything. And if a game does not feel right to you, the strongest move is to skip it -- there is another one tomorrow.

Unlock the rest of this one

You're reading the free preview. One plan unlocks the full article and every pick we back — every league, every day.

Unlock the full article