Time: 20:10 AEST
Date:28-05-2011
Venue: TIO Stadium, Darwin

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This game couldn’t be easier to pick. With the Power in disarray and the Tigers filled with confidence I think this is the banker of the week.

Richmond Tigers

The Tigers beat a depleted Bombers last week in the blockbuster at the G, but did it pretty well in the end, and this week they are playing a side that is under fire and is probably the laughing stock of the AFL as we speak.

In defence the Tigers are still a fair way off, but need the leadership of Brett Deledio and Chris Newman in order to show the way for their youngsters. With every win they are developing confidence and with further experience against accomplished forwards the young Tiger defence will soon be right up there.

In the middle of the ground the Tigers can be expected to enjoy the bulk of action. They will clear and use the ball with superiority through the likes of Dustin Martin and Trent Cotchin. Shane Edwards adds a bit of grunt to the middle along with Daniel Jackson and Nathan Foley. This combination through the guts will be one to remember in the next 2-3 years.

Up forward there is starting to be multiple options on a regular basis. Players like Vickery, Nahas and King are starting to be consistent contributors and with the man of the moment Jack Riewoldt at the helm you know the Tigers will be able to kick a score. Against this Power defence and midfield it could be a 20 goal game for the Tigers.

Port Adelaide Power

The Power are officially a rabble. They are getting flogged at home and away and I do not see much changing this week. Their coach has made the commitment to using younger players and developing them for the future. I agree with this idea but in effect it basically writes the season off for the Power.

In defence you know you will get a solid effort from Alipate Carlile
and Troy Chaplin. But after that you are not really sure what you get and how deep the defence stretches. This will be a key area for the Power because they will be tested. Just cannot see them containing the Tigers.

In the midfield the Power could have a better night here with players like Cornes and Pearce having more of an impact. Having said that, their direct opponents are young, fit and at career best form so it will make the contest that bit more interesting.

The offense of the Power could surprise us tonight with the game being in Darwin. It is one of those occasions where anything could happen and if they do find their feet, Ebert and Westhoff could do something surprising and actually both kick a bag of 3-4 and that would put the Power in with a big show.

The Verdict

The Darwin factor is the only thing in favour of the Power. Other
than that you have to take a confident Tigers on neutral turf.

The Pick :

Richmond Tigers 106- Port Adelaide Power 82

PERCENTAGE ESTIMATE :

85 %

HANDICAP BETTING :

Take the Tigers to win by 16 or more points at 1.47 at Centrebet.