ROUND FIVE
The week in Adelaide was good for some teams, but not so good for others. We saw some cracking games, some controversy (a certain Prophet might have predicted there could be some chaos), and further inconsistency from the AFL. As we head into Round Five, I’m the Prophet and these are my Predictions.
If you decide to base your multi off this, and it fails, I’ve warned you already that that is risky. I won’t be to blame. This is purely for fun, and to see how I go. Feel free to message the page or comment on the previous week’s version if you have any thoughts.
So, strap yourselves in for the Prophet’s Predictions for Round Five.
The Guarantee
We will see far more demonstrative reactions from players than what Jordan Clark produced last week. None of which will result in a punishment near as consequential. (not because there’s #VicBias, simply because one umpire had his feelings hurt. But also, players know not to do it, so just bite your tongue).
Also, Carlton get awarded the win by the umpires before turning up. It seems to be the way thus far in 2024.
The Ultimate Nightmare (Worst Case Scenario)
Further inconsistency from the AFL regarding punishments for certain indiscretions – ie Alistair Clarkson getting a fine for a homophobic slur, while Jeremy Finlayson was suspended. Obviously, the words they said are deemed as different because one had theirs reported in the media, while the other didn’t. However, the AFL need to find some consistency in how they adjudicate.
The Outsider (unexpected winner)
I was going to say the Crom, but they play the Blues, and because of the aforementioned #FreeKickBlues the Crom won’t get close. However, don’t sleep on the Eagles. Yes, I just wrote that. They were much better against the Swans last week. Back at home, against a gallant but undermanned Tigers, this could be a great opportunity for the Eagles to open their account.
The Money Maker (Bold Call)
During Gather Round – and specifically in the Cats-Dogs game – we saw players drop what would have been legitimate contenders for mark of the year. This has happened far too much so far in 2024, and all the contenders for this honour are bastions of mediocrity. I’m declaring that Round 5, 2024 will be when the pendulum shifts and players start holding these marks!
Most at Stake (Vulnerable)
I have four teams in the gun this week.
Port Adelaide, Fremantle, Western Bulldogs, and St Kilda. All of these teams are in or around the eight. They play teams in or around the eight. If they want to get some separation and start stamping their name and impact on the competition, they need to win. The Power-Dockers game in particular looms as must win for the Power (being they are at home) and an opportunity for the Dockers to put a gap between them and some chasing teams, and to circle the Top Four.
The Must Watch (match up or game)
This might be surprising to some, but I’m low-key excited for the Suns-Hawks game in primetime on Saturday Night. Lots of young talent, both threatened to pinch games off higher rated sides than them last week. It could be a lot of fun, this one.
The Unexpected (underdog performance)
I expect the North midfielders to put up some reasonable clearance numbers. The Cats are not strong in clearance (aside from scoring from entre bounce) so the likes of George Wardlaw, Jy Simpkin, and Luke Davies-Uniacke will get opportunities in the clinches.
The Don (player of the round)
It’s hard to go past Tom Green, with the form he is in. The Giants midfielder has been tearing games apart and ensuring his side hold the balance of power in their games.
The other is Libba. Can he back up his 28 contested possessions and 19 clearances against the Bombers?
The Underboss (rookie of the round)
Harley Reid is building nicely. With the Eagles every chance to get on the winners list, this could be the day that the number one pick officially enters the AFL chat.
Individual Brilliance (predicting a stat accomplishment like x goals or marks)
Two thoughts here.
First, a left-field option of Jed Walter kicking 4+ against the Hawks. The Hawks defense can be solid, but can leak as well. The focus will go to King, and I’m not sure they have a great match-up for man child Walter.
The second, is the continued career resurgence of Brandan Parfitt. I’m backing him for 10 + tackles, 6 + clearances, and to hit the scoreboard against the Roos.
Cult Figure Award
This is new for this week, and probably just for this week. Koltyn Tholstrup debuts for the Demons tonight. The kid has flair, and we can look forward to highlights aplenty throughout his career. He’s going to be one of the new cult figures in the AFL and in Melbourne – if he isn’t already.
The Winners (currently on 29)
Melbourne
Western Bulldogs
GWS
Carlton
Gold Coast
Port Adelaide
Geelong
West Coast
These predictions were all made with only Thursday Night teams released. Drop us your thoughts in the comments and stay tuned over the coming weeks to see how the Prophet goes with his predictions.
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