Adelaide vs St Kilda Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Regular Season | Round 1
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Adelaide comes into this game with high expectations for the 2025 season, despite finishing in the bottom four last year.
Kick-off date/time: Sunday 16th March, 2025: UK – 1:35am / Saturday 15th March US ET – 9:35pm / US PT – 6:35pm
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
Adelaide have enjoyed an excellent off-season and enter the match with nearly their full list available for selection.
The Crows will showcase a new-look midfield, with James Peatling, Sid Draper, and Isaac Cumming set to add a new dimension to their play. Izak Rankine is expected to spend more time in the midfield, potentially announcing himself as a star this season. Young midfielder Sid Draper has been confirmed to make his AFL debut in this match, adding to the excitement for Adelaide fans.
St Kilda, on the other hand, have been hit hard by injuries, with key players Max King, Mattaes Phillipou, Mitch Owens, Dougal Howard, Liam Henry, and Dan Butler all unavailable. Additionally, Rowan Marshall and Jack Sinclair will play after interrupted pre-seasons. This injury crisis has severely impacted St Kilda's preparation and depth.
Adelaide's were ranked second last year for contested possessions. and their ability to translate this into inside 50s could be key in this contest. For St Kilda, their speed off half-back could be crucial, particularly in countering the tall Adelaide forward line.
The head-to-head record favours Adelaide, who have won the past two matches between the sides at Adelaide Oval, including a 32-point victory in Round 18 last season. The Crows have won seven of their last nine encounters against St Kilda at this venue.
Given Adelaide's strong pre-season form, home ground advantage, and St Kilda's injury woes, the Crows are clear favourites and look capable of covering a hefty handicap.
Tip: Adelaide to win with -24.5 handicap
