MCG will play host to Friday's AFL game between Carlton Blues and Sydney Swans. The game kicks off at 7:50 pm with Carlton Blues heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Carlton Blues vs. Sydney Swans game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Friday September 8, 2023 at 7:50 pm

Where: MCG

Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE

Carlton Blues vs Sydney Swans Odds

Carlton Blues vs Sydney Swans Preview

A decade-long drought will come to an end on Friday with the Blues returning to the finals for the first time since 2013.

Following an agonizing end to season 2022, Michael Voss’ squad was seemingly destined for further disappointment, dropping six games in a row before a sudden post-bye turnaround.

Whatever went on behind the scenes remains a mystery, but considering where they once were, the fact the Blues are even in this spot to begin with is a massive credit to the entire coaching staff.

Fans of the Baggers have every right to feel nervous though, particularly against a Swans outfit that made it through to the big dance last year.

Sydney’s season has been equally as dramatic for different reasons, John Longmire’s side suffering four straight losses earlier in the year, before bouncing back not long after to defeat Carlton by 26 points at the SCG.

The Swans were considered a potential ‘dark horse’ heading into the finals, but after falling short of a seventh consecutive win against Melbourne in the final round, it’s tough to know if the Bloods have another gear to go after fighting so hard to feature in September.

Likewise, the Blues also came undone against GWS in Round 24, but it’s fair to say that was more a case of the Giants just wanting it more.

On the personnel front, Carlton did suffer a blow with Blake Acres hurting his collarbone last week, while the Swans have some minor concerns themselves around Tom Papley.

In terms of betting, this is another difficult game to try and pick.

Sydney’s biggest strength has been pressure and scoring off turnover, while Carlton’s midfield is finally living up to expectations and delivering the ball into its lethal forward line with poise.

Looking back, there wasn’t much separating these two sides when they met in Round 11. The Swans dominated the centre clearances, but some sloppy errors saw Carlton held goal-less in the final term.

Neither coach will spend too long reflecting on the past, but given the pressure of the moment, and the fact the underdog has covered in each of Sydney’s last eight games at the MCG, this one could turn out tighter than the market suggests.

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