Richmond v Essendon PreviewAndrew Slevison
SEN
10 July 2025When you dig a bit deeper, this contest is much more intriguing than it appears to the naked eye.
A rebuilding Richmond and a regenerating Essendon meet at the MCG in an out-and-out dead rubber when it comes to the ladder (unless of course West Coast can win a few more games).
But there is a bit to play for with both groups of players desperately wanting a win given the circumstances.
The Tigers sit 17th with a 3-13 record and after a good patch of form have been beaten by 44, 79, 68 and 72 points across the last four weeks. They haven’t won since Round 9.
The Bombers, 13th at 6-9, have lost five in a row including 95, 41 and 41-point defeats in their last three.
That situation alone makes this a fairly fascinating fixture. Throw in the mounting injuries at both clubs and there is plenty of intrigue centred around the youngsters.
On a head-to-head basis, the Bombers have saluted three times in a row dating back to the drought-breaking 2023 Dreamtime win plus a 23-point triumph in Round 11 this year.
Given there is a severe lack of experience up forward for the Tigers, you get the feeling that it will be tough for them to kick a winning score. Adem Yze’s side has failed to kick 80 or more in their past seven while conceding 100 or more in three straight.
Brad Scott’s Bombers have been similarly poor defensively and only a little more consistent with their scoring profile. But they should see this through with gun mids Zach Merrett and Nic Martin - who dominated Dreamtime - set to be a handful again.
Prediction: Essendon by 18 points.
https://www.sen.com.au/news/2025/07/10/who-will-win-and-why-tips-and-predictions-for-afl-round-18
