Back for another week, the SEN.com.au team gives you an insight into how every game will play out across the weekend.
Labelling something a ‘certainty’ in any sport is fraught with danger.
But we’ll attempt to find some anyway.
Here is what we consider certainties for the Round 13 Friday night clash between the Western Bulldogs and Port Adelaide.
Connor Rozee to have over 20 disposals
Connor Rozee is arguably one of the best players in the competition and he loves the big stage!
There’s been so much discussion about Port Adelaide’s midfield trio in Zak Butters, Jason Horne-Francis and Rozee, and rightfully so.
The thing that elevates Rozee above so many other midfielders in the game is his dynamic speed and against the likes of Mitch Duncan, Mark Blicavs, Mark O’Connor and Tom Atkins, he’ll be too fast for them!
Lock it in that he’ll find the pill more than 20 times.
Junior Rioli to kick a goal
One of the best small forwards in the game, Rioli will kick AT LEAST one goal on Thursday night!
As crafty as they get in front of goal, the Power forward makes the most of his opportunities in front mainly because of the dangerous positions he finds himself in.
There’s no stand out defender from the Cats but would think they’ll mix it up with Zach Guthrie, Mark O’Connor and Jed Bews.
Rioli will shine on the big stage.
Hugh Fitzpatrick
Dangerfield to gather 20+ disposals
The Geelong skipper had been in fine form before an untimely hamstring injury and returns against Port Adelaide in a crucial clash for the Cats.
Win this, and Geelong is back. Lose it, and the Cats’ top four hopes are all but over and finals chances are hanging by a thread.
That being the case, Dangerfield has to and will stand up. He’s only twice gone under 20 touches in 2023 – one of those when subbed off at half-time – and comes into Round 14 with enough fitness under his belt, taking six weeks to get over a minor hamstring strain.
Port Adelaide will back its own midfield in, meaning it’s a battle of the bulls at Adelaide Oval.
Stewart for 20+ touches, 5+ rebound 50s
With a tall forward line to mind, Stewart will find himself around the ball a lot against the Power.
The 30-year-old has gone below 20 touches just twice this year. Port Adelaide plays a forward-half game, with the second most inside 50s of any team in 2023, meaning the ball should follow Stewart around.
Stewart’s also had 27, 23 and 20 disposals against Port in his last three outings.
Seb Mottram