Two of the biggest losers from Round 1, Essendon and Port Adelaide face off in Round 2 in the search for their first W of season 2026.
Both clubs will be looking to put last week’s lacklustre performances behind them as Port hosts the Bombers at Adelaide Oval on Sunday afternoon.
Port were thumped 113-67 by a rebuilding North Melbourne last Sunday, despite the Power entering the match as favourites. It marked Port’s first loss against the Kangaroos in over six years.
Essendon on the other hand had 145 points put on them by the Hawks, with many questioning the Bombers’ defensive resolve and physical fitness in their first hitout.
Whoever learns more from their respective shellackings will be in pole position to take this one out.
Will the hopeful Bombers’ fans be consigned to another year of mediocrity?
Or will Port Adelaide fans be silenced in this contest at the famous Adelaide Oval.
The Sunday scaries await the loser of this one.
For the latest team news, analysis, and expert insights, check out our Port Adelaide vs Essendon Round 2 prediction and preview below.
Port Adelaide vs Essendon Bombers Prediction and Betting Tips
Head-to-Head Prediction
Perhaps Round 1’s two most disappointing teams collide here with more than a few things to clean up. The Power were effectively nullified by North last week after kicking the game’s first two goals.
North Melbourne proceeded to bang on 17 goals to seven in a dominant display which left the Port faithful bewildered. Safe to say, it’s a nightmare start to Josh Carr’s reign as head coach.
For Essendon, things were hardly any better as Hawthorn looked like they’d showed up to a training drill on Friday night at the G.
It was hard to know whether the Bombers players gave up early, or simply had no idea what to do when the Hawks dialled up the heat. We’re not sure which one is a worse sign for Essendon's season to come.
The beauty of footy is that there’s always another week to turn things around, and both teams get that chance here.
Much like the GWS and Saints clash, the loser of this one will be under an absolute mountain of pressure next week.
We expect the home ground advantage to be the decider.
Head-to-head prediction: Port Adelaide by 17 points.
First Goal Scorer Prediction
Mitch Georgiades remains one of the most athletic targets in the Power's forward line and will be eager to provide a spark after limited opportunities in Round 1.
With Port traditionally starting fast in Adelaide, we expect Georgiades to find space early and snag the first major to settle the home crowd's nerves.
Betting tip: Mitch Georgiades.
Most Disposals Prediction
You’ve got to feel for Zach Merrett, an out and out star midfielder at a struggling club. Merrett would walk into just about any team in the league and consistently tops Essendon's Brownlow Voting.
The former Essendon captain is an elite midfielder and prolific ball-winner who rarely has a quiet afternoon, regardless of the scoreboard.
With Port’s midfield looking vulnerable last week, expect Merrett to be heavily involved as he tries to lead his Bombers to victory.
Betting tip: Zach Merrett.
Odds are subject to change.*
Port Adelaide vs Essendon Bombers Predicted Teams
Port Adelaide Predicted Team List
FB: Todd Marshall, Esava Ratugolea, Lachie Jones
HB: Kane Farrell, Aliir Aliir, Logan Evans
C: Jacob Wehr, Connor Rozee, Ewan Mackinlay
HF: Joe Berry, Mitch Georgiades, Jason Horne-Francis
FF: Joe Richards, Ollie Lord, Darcy Byrne-Jones
Foll: Dante Visentini, Zak Butters, Willem Drew
I/C: Corey Durdin, Miles Bergman, Jase Burgoyne, Jack Whitlock, Jack Watkins
Essendon Predicted Team List
FB: Jaxon Prior, Ben McKay, Zach Reid
HB: Zak Johnson, Mason Redman, Andrew McGrath
C: Xavier Duursma, Jye Caldwell, Brayden Fiorini
HF: Sam Durham, Nate Caddy, Isaac Kako
FF: Hussien El Achkar, Peter Wright, Kyle Langford
Foll: Lachlan Blakiston, Darcy Parish, Zach Merrett
I/C: Dyson Sharp, Jayden Nguyen, Max Kondogiannis, Archie Roberts, Archie Perkins
Port Adelaide vs Essendon Bombers Match Details
Date: Sunday, March 22, 2026
First Bounce: 3:15pm AEDT
Location: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
How to Watch: Fox Footy/Kayo Sports