The 2024 season is here! With a brand new 'Opening Round' to kick things off, there will be four huge clashes to whet your appetite. Stay abreast of all the AFL fixtures, games, news, tips, odds, results, reaction and video as they come to hand.
THURSDAY, MARCH 7
Sydney Swans vs. Melbourne
Team news: In terrific news for Demons fans, Clayton Oliver is a confirmed starter for Thursday night's season opener after an interrupted offseason, which included the star midfielder taking personal leave in the new year. Simon Goodwin will also name debutants Caleb Windsor and Blake Howes, while former Saint Jack Billings will play his first match in new colours. Meanwhile, the Swans will be without midfield trio Callum Mills (shoulder), Luke Parker (arm), and Taylor Adams (knee), but offseason acquisitions Brodie Grundy and James Jordon should both suit up.
READ: Why the Demons can rise above off-field drama in 2024
ESPN tip: Demons by 19 points
Pointsbet odds: Swans $1.92, Dees $1.88
Result: Sydney 12.14 (86) def. Melbourne 9.10 (64)
Get your tips in now on the ESPNfootytips app!
FRIDAY, MARCH 8
Brisbane Lions vs. Carlton
Team news: Star Carlton midfielder and last year's finals MVP Sam Walsh will have a delayed start to the season after hurting his back during preseason, with gun defender Jacob Weitering (calf), Jesse Motlop (foot), and Jack Martin (knee) also unavailable. In better news for Michael Voss' side, speedster Zac Williams is set to return after missing the 2023 season with an ACL injury, while Orazio Fantasia will also debut for his third club. For the Lions, defender Connor McKenna continues to batte a hamstring injury and won't suit up. Will Ashcroft and Tom Doedee also won't be seen as they continue their recovery from knee injuries sustained last year.
READ: Will the Blues win their first flag since 1995?
ESPN tip: Lions by 17 points
Pointsbet odds: Lions $1.27, Blues $3.85
SATURDAY, MARCH 9
Gold Coast Suns vs. Richmond
Heritage Bank Stadium, 4:20pm (AEST)
Team news: Three-time premiership coach Damien Hardwick will face his former side for the first time when the Suns and Tigers meet on Saturday afternoon. Lachie Weller is still recovering from a knee injury, but expect to see Alex Sexton to be deployed as a rebound defender in his absence. Meanwhile, Richmond have named newcomers Jacob Koschitzke and Sam Naismith, but captain Toby Nankervis, Jack Graham, Tom Lynch and Dustin Martin will all miss.
READ: Why Dimma, Yze aren't under pressure this season
ESPN tip: Tigers by 18 points
Pointbet odds: Suns $1.51, Tigers $2.50
GWS Giants vs. Collingwood
Team news: The Giants come into the 2024 season with high expectations after a heartbreaking preliminary final exit last season at the hands of Collingwood. But coach Adam Kingsley will have to face the reigning premiers without Finn Callaghan (shoulder), and Harry Perryman (hamstring), who have both been ruled out. Magpies spearhead Dan McStay is expected to miss the entire season with an ACL injury, but Craig McRae's forward line will feature former Docker Lachie Schultz. Young defender Charlie Dean will also make his long-awaited debut with Nathan Murphy (concussion) and Jeremy Howe (corked leg) out of the side.
READ: Why the Giants have the best list in the competition
ESPN tip: Magpies by 9 points
Pointsbet odds: Giants $1.70, Magpies $2.15