Thursday night kicks off a massive round of football as the top two sides in the Brisbane Lions and Melbourne face-off at the MCG.
It looms as a fascinating battle, with both team heading into the clash without their respective Captains.
For Brisbane, they’ll be looking to break an eight-year hoodoo as they chase their first win at the MCG since 2014 while Melbourne will be eager to snap a three-game losing streak.
Last Time We Met
Last time Brisbane faced Melbourne, they were handed a 33-point defeat at Adelaide Oval in last years Qualifying Final.
In a tough, physical contest, the Lions were under pressure early with Dan McStay subbed out in the first quarter following a nasty knock in an unfortunate friendly fire moment.
Clayton Oliver was the best for the Demons with 33 disposals, 7 clearances and a goal while Lachie Neale was prolific for the Lions with 46 touches, 13 clearances and 582 metres gained.
Charlie Cameron was the best of the goalkickers with five majors, while Bailey Fritsch kicked four of his own for Melbourne.
Key Match-Ups
Jarrod Berry vs Clayton Oliver
In a game that will be decided in the contest, the potential battle between Jarrod Berry and Clayton Oliver is a must-watch.
Oliver is currently leading the competition for average disposals and sits second for contested possessions while also ranks ‘elite’ for inside 50s and total clearances.
For Berry, he’s having a career-best year in his own right. Tasked with multiple shutdown roles throughout the season, the 24-year-old continues to show his versatility in the midfield and will be vital to the Lions chances of winning the midfield battle.
Steven May vs Joe Daniher
One of the competitions best defences will come up against the competitions best attacking side on Thursday night.
Joe Daniher will return to the MCG for the first time as a Lion, averaging 2.8 goals a game which is elite for a key position forward.
His likely opposition in Steven May will pose a challenge for Daniher however. A strong contested defender, May is averaging 6.5 intercept possessions, 4.9 marks a game and is a key pillar of the Demons back six.
Other Things to Know
- Chris Fagan celebrates his 61st birthday today.
- Harris Andrews will Captain Brisbane tonight and also run out for his 150th game.
- Jimmy Tunstill will make his debut for the Brisbane Lions tonight. The 18-year-old has averaged 19.5 disposals a game in the VFL.
- Zac Bailey won’t line up for the Lions under AFL Health & Safety Protocol and will be replaced by Thomas Berry.
- Brisbane haven't won at the MCG since Round 21, 2014 with Dan McStay the only member of tonight's starting 22 to have played in that match.
