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Get ready for all the action with our in-depth previews and predictions for the 2026 AFL Premiership Round 3. If you missed last week’s action, you can catch up with our AFL Round 2 results for more expert insight and context.
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Geelong Cats vs Adelaide Crows
Cats to win by 1–39 points
A fresh challenge opens the round at GMHBA, where Geelong return from the bye with a settled side and selection pressure building in key areas. Adelaide, meanwhile, come in a touch undermanned, with Callum Ah Chee sidelined and doubts around Rory Laird’s fitness softening their midfield depth. The Cats’ ability to lock the ball in their front half and generate repeat entries should prove decisive, particularly on home turf.
We’re backing Geelong to control the game at home and edge a competitive contest.
Collingwood vs GWS GIANTS
Magpies to win by 1–39 points
Friday night under the roof brings a different tempo, and Collingwood should be better equipped this time around with Darcy Moore and Jeremy Howe set to return. That immediately tightens their defensive setup. GWS have talent pushing for selection and key names nearing a comeback, but they’ve been slow out of the blocks and can’t afford another flat start. Collingwood’s ball movement through the middle is likely to be the difference, particularly in a fast-paced indoor contest.
We’re backing Collingwood to lift with key inclusions and grind out a narrow win.
St Kilda vs Brisbane Lions
Lions to win by 1–39 points
This one carries a bit of edge for Brisbane, who return from the bye still searching for their first win. The good news is reinforcements are coming, with Zac Bailey and Darcy Gardiner back. St Kilda showed resilience last week, but they’re still piecing things together. Greater midfield control gives Brisbane the platform to build pressure and create scoring chances as the game opens up.
We’re backing Brisbane to build into the contest and take control in the second half.
Fremantle vs Richmond
Dockers to win by 40+ points
There’s a clear gap between these sides heading into Saturday afternoon. Fremantle have depth, flexibility, and a midfield that can dictate terms, while Richmond have been hit hard with the loss of Toby Nankervis and Tom Lynch. That takes away structure at both ends and leaves them exposed around stoppages. The Dockers don’t need much invitation at Optus Stadium, and early control should quickly translate into scoreboard pressure.
We’re backing Fremantle to take control early and run away with this one.
Essendon vs North Melbourne
Kangaroos to win by 1–39 points
Essendon are searching for stability after a rough start, with changes looming and key injuries forcing a rethink. North Melbourne look more settled by comparison, with a midfield group that’s starting to find balance and a forward line that can capitalise on turnover. Even with concerns around Griffin Logue, the Roos have shown they can absorb pressure. Their composure around the contest gives them a slight edge in what should be a tight battle.
We’re backing North Melbourne to stay composed and pinch a close one.
Port Adelaide vs West Coast Eagles
Power to win by 1–39 points
Port Adelaide’s plans take a hit with Connor Rozee sidelined, but the return of Ollie Wines gives them a way to steady things through the middle. At Adelaide Oval, they’ll still expect to dictate large parts of the game. West Coast have shown glimpses, but sustaining pressure across four quarters remains an issue, particularly against sides that can win territory. Port’s contested strength and home advantage should allow them to wear the Eagles down.
We’re backing Port Adelaide to steady at home and get the job done.
Carlton vs Melbourne
Demons to win by 1–39 points
The final game of the round shapes as one of the tighter matchups. Carlton have shown flashes but haven’t quite clicked, while Melbourne’s system, built around Max Gawn and a structured forward setup, gives them a clearer edge. The Demons’ ability to win stoppages and lock the ball inside their forward half should prove decisive, particularly late when games tighten. That structure makes them the more reliable side in a close finish.
We’re backing Melbourne to control key phases and edge a close finish.
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