Western Bulldogs vs. GWS Predictions – AFL Round 1 2026

We have Western Bulldogs vs. GWS predictions for AFL Round 1 on Saturday, March 14 at 1:15pm at Marvel Stadium.

The Western Bulldogs are short favourites to continue their good start, but GWS can’t be underestimated on Super Saturday.

Western Bulldogs vs. GWS Predictions

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Best Bet

Based on their opening round performances, we don’t see much difference between the Bulldogs and GWS, so we’re snapping up the +20.5 line.

The GIANTS were too good for Hawthorn, winning 122-95, and they’re good enough to give the Bulldogs something to worry about. The Bulldogs looked good when beating the Brisbane Lions 111-106, so we’re not discounting that effort.

However, we think AFL odds aren’t giving GWS enough credit, especially given how well their offence played. Jesse Hogan was his usual self with three goals, but Jake Stringer kicked five. If they play well, covering a –20.5 spread will prove difficult.

It could be a thrilling contest that comes down to the final few minutes, so back GWS +20.5. It’s an excellent line for a game involving quality teams heading in the right direction.

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Same Game Multi

Our AFL same game multi bet hinges on Hogan and Stringer playing well. They are key to GWS’s success, and they should kick two goals each.

Hogan has six goals from his last two games, and although he had a dry spell towards the end of last season, he has returned in fine order. He’s an elite goal scorer, so take the $1.58 odds for a 2+ goal performance.

Stringer was incredible last week when scoring five goals. He had the ball on a string, and the $1.83 to keep that form going is a good price.

Goals should be aplenty on Saturday afternoon, and although they combined for only 176 points in their most recent meeting, GWS had only 44 points, and they should score at least double that this time around.

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Best Value Bet

The Bulldogs have the wood over GWS, but it’s time for a change. They were embarrassed in 2025 when scoring just 44 points, and this team is good enough to turn that result around.

Last week was a good indication of that, and if GWS performs at the same level, it should have a chance of winning the game outright at generous odds.

Punters get $3.22, and the odds are worth the risk.