Essendon vs Port Adelaide Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Regular Season | Round 3
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Essendon and Port Adelaide are set to clash at Marvel Stadium on Thursday night in a Round 3 encounter.
Kick-off date/time: Thursday 27th March, 2025: UK – 8:30am / US ET – 4:30am / US PT – 1:30am
How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / US – Some matches are televised on Fox Sports channels
How to watch online: UK – discovery+ & Watch AFL / US – Watch AFL
The Prediction
Essendon come off a humbling defeat against Adelaide where they were thoroughly outplayed in a 61-point drubbing. The Bombers struggled defensively, conceding uncontested marks and failing to apply sufficient pressure behind the ball. Despite Zach Merrett’s standout performance (36 disposals and four goals) and Tom Edwards’ promising debut (three goals), Essendon’s midfield lacked cohesion, and their inability to defend transition was glaring. Coach Brad Scott has acknowledged the need for greater intensity and structure, but whether they can implement these changes against a strong Port Adelaide side remains uncertain.
Port Adelaide, on the other hand, rebounded emphatically from their Round 1 disappointment with a commanding win over Richmond. The Power dominated clearances and recorded the largest disposal differential in AFL history (+180). Connor Rozee led the charge with 39 disposals and two goals, while Mitch Georgiades and Willie Rioli contributed heavily up top.
Port Adelaide hold a psychological edge having beaten Essendon in their last eight meetings. Their ability to control possession and exploit Essendon’s defensive vulnerabilities could prove decisive. With Rozee in scintillating form and their midfield firing, Port looks well-positioned to extend their dominance.
Expect Port Adelaide’s midfield strength and scoring power to overwhelm Essendon, and they should comfortably cover a -12.5 point handicap as they continue their resurgence.
Tip: Port Adelaide to win with -12.5 handicap
