THIS weekend’s final match sees a replay of the 2022 Preliminary Final as Melbourne hosts North Melbourne.

Today at 3:05pm
Ikon Park

How They Got Here

Melbourne had another strong season and almost finished minor premiers, but had a stumble against Brisbane in the final round of the season.

North Melbourne had an emphatic win over the Western Bulldogs last weekend to book their double chance and improve on their Season 7 ladder finish.

History

There is certainly plenty of history between these two sides. These two sides have met seven times previously, with Melbourne having won six of them, which included their meeting only a few weeks ago. North’s one win was back in Season 3 in the first ever meeting between the sides.

Key Stat Areas

While North has had significantly more inside 50s this season, Melbourne’s inside 50 efficiency is significantly better. On the flipside, Melbourne has been doing better in the hitouts while North’s clearance numbers are better.

Key Match Up/s

Shelley Heath vs Jasmine Garner

Heath went to Garner in a tagging role last time these two teams played, and it worked a treat for those in red and blue, so it will not be a surprise if a similar move happens this afternoon. Garner is a huge asset to the North Melbourne midfield, but as has been proven multiple times this season, if you tag her out of the game that can make a huge difference.

Tahlia Gillard vs Tahlia Randall

With North Melbourne’s forward line having so many talls Gillard is spoiled for choice when it comes to who to mark, but she did keep Randall very quiet when the sides met earlier in the season so a repeat matchup could be seen this afternoon. North fans will certainly be hoping for a much bigger game from Randall this time around.

Tayla Harris vs Jasmine Ferguson

One extra headache North Melbourne have to face today that they did not have to deal with earlier in the season is Harris in Melbourne’s forward line. Ferguson or whoever ends up on Harris is going to have a big job and a hard job trying to keep the lively forward out of the game.