Marvel Stadium will play host to Saturday's Round 17 AFL game between Essendon and Gold Coast SUNS. The game kicks off at 12:35 pm with Gold Coast SUNS heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Essendon vs. Gold Coast SUNS game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Saturday July 5, 2025 at 12:35 pm

Where: Marvel Stadium

Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE

Essendon vs Gold Coast SUNS Odds

Essendon vs Gold Coast SUNS Preview

Gold Coast faces a pivotal clash in its finals quest when it takes on a depleted Essendon at Marvel Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The Suns returned to form in Round 16 with an impressive 19-point win over Melbourne, snapping a three-game skid by bursting out of the blocks with five unanswered goals.

Currently clinging to a spot in the top eight, the Suns face a daunting stretch against the competition’s elite after this week—making Saturday’s match a must-win. Essendon, on the other hand, enters in disarray. The Bombers have lost four on the trot and were hit hard over their bye, with key players Darcy Parish, Kyle Langford and Mason Redman all suffering injury setbacks.

The Suns edged a thriller in their last encounter, with Mac Andrew slotting a match-winner after the siren. If Gold Coast brings the same intensity shown against Melbourne, they’ll be well placed to bank a crucial four points.