Can Richmond Be Trusted? Experts Throw Their Support Behind Bombers in Dreamtime at the ‘G

Nine’s AFL analysts are in full agreement, predicting an Essendon victory in the Dreamtime at the ‘G match, while Richmond struggles to receive support despite remaining competitive throughout the season.

The Tigers kicked off their campaign impressively by defeating Carlton, upset the top-four Gold Coast side, and secured a nail-biting win against West Coast. Last week, they narrowly missed out on victory against North Melbourne as well.

In contrast, Essendon comes into this clash following a disheartening defeat to the Western Bulldogs and is facing an increasing injury toll.

As astonishing as it may seem at this stage of the season, a victory for Richmond on Friday would place them just one game behind the top eight on the ladder.

Both teams have high stakes going into this match, with the Dreamtime at the ‘G event being of deep significance to them both.

While Essendon has secured victories in their past two encounters with the Tigers, they ended a nine-year losing streak in the process. This upcoming clash promises to be an intriguing spectacle.

In other upcoming matches, analysts are divided on the Bailey Smith against Western Bulldogs grudge match, while a slight majority believes Carlton will best GWS.

Melbourne is widely expected to defeat Sydney, and Collingwood, Fremantle, and Adelaide are also unanimously tipped, alongside the Bombers.

Expert tips for round 11

Jimmy Bartel: Bulldogs, Essendon, Carlton, Hawthorn, Collingwood, Fremantle, Adelaide, Melbourne, Gold Coast

Rory Sloane: Geelong, Essendon, Carlton, Hawthorn, Collingwood, Fremantle, Adelaide, Melbourne, Gold Coast

Tom Morris: Geelong, Essendon, Carlton, Hawthorn, Collingwood, Fremantle, Adelaide, Melbourne, Gold Coast

Eddie McGuire: Bulldogs, Essendon, GWS, Brisbane, Collingwood, Fremantle, Adelaide, Melbourne, Gold Coast

Clint Stanaway: Bulldogs, Essendon, Carlton, Hawthorn, Collingwood, Fremantle, Adelaide, Melbourne, Gold Coast

Nat Yoannidis: Geelong, Essendon, GWS, Hawthorn, Collingwood, Fremantle, Adelaide, Melbourne, St Kilda

Tony Jones: Bulldogs, Essendon, GWS, Brisbane, Collingwood, Fremantle, Adelaide, Melbourne, Gold Coast