Labelling something a ‘certainty’ in any sport is fraught with danger.
But we’ll attempt to find some anyway.
Here is what we consider certainties for Friday night’s clash between Brisbane and Melbourne:
Charlie Cameron 2+ goals
Brisbane small forward Charlie Cameron went goalless in Round 15 against Melbourne, but don’t expect that to happen again.
Up against the Dees in 2021, Cameron kicked seven combined majors from two games and he’d hope to have a similar impact this time around.
From 21 games in 2022, Cameron is averaging 2.2 goals a game and you’d expect him to get near that marker again, particularly as Melbourne’s defence has begun to falter after the bye.
The livewire could have a big say in his side’s top four hopes.
Hugh McCluggage to have 25 or more disposals
Brisbane midfielder Hugh McCluggage has captured some strong form since the club’s bye in Round 11.
From those 10 games, McCluggage’s lowest disposal tally is 24, with his consistency coming to the fore as the Lions have claimed seven of those matches.
His average disposals per game this season is exactly 25, proving that this number is well and truly gettable for the 24-year-old.
Considering that low water mark of 24 touches came last week against St Kilda, expect McCluggage to roar back into form in his side’s biggest game of the season.
Lachlan Geleit
Clayton Oliver to have 30 or more disposals
Melbourne midfielder Clayton Oliver has been dominant this season, averaging 34 disposals from 21 games.
Oliver loves the big stage, so expect him to thrive again on Friday night.
While Brisbane’s midfield is deep and dominant, they’ve let Seb Ross (32 possessions), Sam Docherty (28 possessions) and Dion Prestia (26 possessions) get off the chain and be influential in their past three games.
With Oliver averaging over 34 disposals a game in his last two appearances against Brisbane, he’ll be prolific again at the Gabba with a top four slot up for grabs.
Steven May to have 15 or disposals
Steven May is a star, his ability to defend first and then hurt you on attack is a pleasure to watch.
Being one of Melbourne’s best kicks, there’s no doubt the Dees look to get the ball in his hands and more importantly the ball on his left foot.
Also, he takes the kick-ins which is a plus for those that take May to have 15 or more disposals.
Hugh Fitzpatrick