MCG will play host to Thursday's AFL game between Collingwood Magpies and Melbourne Demons. The game kicks off at 7:20 pm with Collingwood Magpies heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Collingwood Magpies vs. Melbourne Demons game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Thursday September 7, 2023 at 7:20 pm

Where: MCG

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Collingwood Magpies vs Melbourne Demons Odds

Collingwood Magpies vs Melbourne Demons Preview

With a spot in the Qualifying Final up for grabs, a fitting matchup between the Pies and the Dees awaits in front of a packed house at the ‘G.

Firmly favoured to win the Premiership for the majority of the season, the Pies find themselves with a few chinks in the armour following a rollercoaster final month of footy.

Key injuries to Nick Daicos, Darcy Moore, and Jamie Elliot has really put some pressure on Collingwood’s depth, but that didn’t stop the Pies running out comfortable 70-point winners over Essendon in Round 24.

The Dees have also faced some tribulations throughout the season, namely injuries to Max Gawn, the absence of Clayton Oliver, and more recently, a season-ending injury to Jake Melksham.

Simon Goodwin’s side has come good winning five of its last six games down the stretch, but after struggling to find points for most of the year, there are some queries on Melbourne heading into the pointy end of the year.

As the market suggests, this could be a close game between two sides that have become well-acquainted – the last two meetings being decided by no more than seven points.

In comparison, there isn’t much separating both sides on the stat sheet, either.

The Dees and Pies are both averaging around 24 scoring shots and 13 goals a game, but where Collingwood might hold the advantage is in the turnover department.

Melbourne currently leads the league in turnovers, a huge problem against Collingwood’s fierce midfield and the full voice of the Magpie army.

It is worth nothing though that the Dees have been the best fourth-quarter team in the competition, setting up an interesting challenge for a Collingwood side that tends to roar home late in the final term.

Overall, the Pies should win this game, but not by much.

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