The smash ‘em up and kock ‘em down Rivalry round really has some red hot contests in round 17.  There really is some great match ups and it is a tipsters nightmare trying to get this one right. 
 

First up on Friday night at the “G Carlton hosts Collingwood and I reckon we will see 80,000 + there.  Collingwood came back to earth with a thud last week and Carlton actually beat Sydney, a rare happening.  I think though that Collingwood are the more polished team and should win this one.  However, the drawn out coaching appointment could have taken some focus away. 
 

Geelong meet Hawthorn in what should be another good game seeing Hawthorn are on the improve.  The Cats have not been their most impressive over the last month but should have enough to overcome Hawthorn this week. 
 

The local derby is always a close one in Perth and this week will be no exception.  With Pavlich and Sandilands back for the Dockers they should knock this one over. 
 

Saturday night and Brisbane host North Melbourne and Brisbane will win. 
 

Another rip-snorter  on Saturday night matches up the Western Bulldogs against ladder leaders St. Kilda.  Remember it was the Bulldogs who stuffed up Essendon’s bid for an undefeated season I think in 2000 and could they do it again.  Digger says yes and sees the Western Bulldogs getting up by a couple of goals. 
 

Melbourne versus Sydney could go either way with neither team showing much form.  Sydney have been a sad team to watch decline and Melbourne hope is the future.  In a flip of the coin, Melbourne. 
 

Essendon will beat Richmond and in the Adelaide derby, Adelaide will thrash Port. 
 

Digger