Essendon v Carlton tips, prediction and odds update; AFL round 7 preview 2021

Welcome to our Essendon v Carlton tips, prediction and odds analysis for their AFL round 7 clash at the MCG on Sunday afternoon. 

The Bombers and Blues sit in 12th and 13th positions on the ladder and both desperately need a win to stay in touch with the top eight. 

Essendon last played on Sunday when they upset Collingwood in the traditional Anzac Day clash, with young midfielder Darcy Parrish enjoying a breakout game. 

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Carlton fought bravely against the Lions at Marvel Stadium in the Saturday twilight fixture, but missed opportunities and a lack of class ultimately cost them.

This clash is shaping as a genuine beauty and the Aussie bookies agree, pricing Carlton ($1.72) as favourite, while the Bombers are outsiders at $2.11. The $1.90 line has been set at 6.5 points. 

There is little relief on the injury front this week for Carlton, although utility Jack Silvagni has overcome a shoulder injury quicker than expected and could play this weekend. Tom De Koning (back) and Nick Newman (knee) are expected to play in the VFL this weekend. 

Essendon will regain young star Jordan Ridley after he missed the Magpies win with concussion, while key position defender Aaron Francis has recovered well from an ankle sprain and is in the mix. James Stewart, Dylan Clarke and Jy Caldwell are all nearing returns from their respective injuries, but will not play this weekend. 

Continue reading for our free Essendon v Carlton tips and winner prediction for their AFL round 7 clash at the MCG on Sunday, from 3.20pm. 

Start:	3.20pm AEST, May 2
Venue:	MCG, Melbourne
Head-to-head odds:	Essendon ($2.11) v Carlton ($1.72)
Line betting:	Essendon +6.5 points ($1.90) v Carlton -6.5 ($1.90)
Premiership odds:	Essendon $101; Carlton $81

Essendon v Carlton tips

Here are our free Essendon v Carlton tips for their blockbuster Sunday afternoon clash.

Essendon Bombers v Carlton Blues prediction 2/5

Carlton looks to have a little bit more untapped potential this season, despite these teams sitting on the same amount of wins and Essendon coming off a sensational win over Collingwood. With the jury still deliberating on Blues coach David Teague, it could turn into a full-blow riot down at Princess Park if they drop this one. We also think the Bombers might have a let down after the Anzac Day high, with such a young team on the park. Our final Essendon v Carlton prediction? Blues by 14 points. 

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