Labeling something as a “certainty” in any sport is fraught with danger.
But we’ll try to find some anyway.
Here’s what we consider certainties for Friday night’s clash between Melbourne and Collingwood:
Fritsch to kick multiple goals
Bayley Fritsch leads Melbourne’s goal scoring with 43 majors so far in 2022.
The Demons forward’s marking ability, ground level work and lethal finishing make him a tough matchup.
Fritsch is coming off a three-goal display in last week’s win over Fremantle, the 13th time he has scored multiple goals this season.
Melbourne’s most dangerous forward averages more than two goals a game.
Petracca will have more than 20 eliminations and 4 appearances
Christian Petracca is one of the most damaging players in the competition.
Last year’s Norm Smith medalist finds plenty of the ball and often hurts the opposition with his disposals.
The Melbourne star has recorded the highest scoring involvement in the competition this year averaging 8.4 per game.
Petracca also ranks first in the league for inside 50s and assists.
The Magpies would like to stifle Petracca’s influence, although that is easier said than done.
Alex Zaia
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Pendlebury to have 18+ disposals with a combined total of 8 or more inside 50s, clearances and tackles
Scott Pendlebury has fallen below his season average over the past two weeks.
The Collingwood captain averages 22 disposals but has managed just 16 in each of his last two outings.
However, with Taylor Adams sidelined for Friday night’s clash with Melbourne, he should shoulder more responsibility in midfield.
Pendlebury has been on a consistent nick against the Demons of late, averaging 25.2 touches, 3.6 inside 50s, 3.2 disposals and 3.2 tackles in their last five meetings.
With a vacancy in the middle to fill, we’re going with Pendles to pick up at least 18 touches and have a combined total of at least 8 inside 50, clearances and tackles.
Elliott and De Goey combine for 3+ goals
Jamie Elliott has been a consistent source of goals for the Magpies in recent weeks.
On the year, he has pitched 17 in 13 games, with 12 of those in his last seven.
He kicked 3.1 in the win over the Dees in Round 13.
Jordan De Goey returned with two goals and 23 touches last week.
This season he has scored 14.17 goals in 14 outings.
He was goalless in this game last time out, but the Pies will need him to step up.
The duo of Elliott and De Goey will need to combine for more than 3 goals if Collingwood are to post a winning score.
Andrew Slevion