SUMMARY
Melbourne was hammered by an in-form Swans side in round 13 in wet conditions at the SCG before its bye. The assignments don't get any easier with a contest against the Crows, who are on a hot streak having won five games on the trot. Adelaide's scoring power (the Crows are ranked first in the competition, averaging 112 points per game) could cause plenty of headaches for an inexperienced and at times leaky backline. Melbourne will be hoping it can win enough ball out of the middle, with the likes of Jack Viney, Nathan Jones and Dom Tyson to set the tone, to ensure Adelaide's forwards do not get the supply. If the Demons' onballers do not get on top, Eddie Betts, Taylor Walker, Tom Lynch and Josh Jenkins could have a field day.
WHERE AND WHEN: MCG, Sunday, July 3, 3.20pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
Bernie Vince is up against his old side this week. Picture: AFL Media
LAST FIVE TIMES
R3, 2015, Adelaide 12.8 (80) d Melbourne 7.13 (55) at Adelaide Oval
R7, 2014, Melbourne 11.4 (70) d Adelaide 9.13 (67) at Adelaide Oval
R22, 2013, Adelaide 18.12 (120) d Melbourne 7.10 (52) at AAMI Stadium
R22, 2012, Adelaide 22.18 (150) d Melbourne 11.15 (81) at the MCG
R7, 2011, Melbourne 22.17 (149) d Adelaide 8.5 (53) at the MCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. The Demons are the most accurate team in the AFL this season. They have kicked 188.125 at 56 per cent. The Crows have dropped to sixth at 52.9 per cent.
2. The Crows are ranked first for scoring, averaging 112 points per game. They have also kicked 100 points in a game 10 times. Melbourne is kicking 96 points per game.
3. Melbourne and Adelaide clash for the 35th time, with the Crows holding a clear advantage, winning 22 games to 12.
4. Melbourne has been impressive in winning clearances this season, ranked second in the AFL. It has averaged 40.1 clearances per game, with star midfielder Jack Viney ranked equal 12th. Adelaide is ranked fifth for clearances.
5. Clashes at the MCG between the sides have been rare in recent seasons. The last game between the sides came in 2012. In total there has been 13 games at the venue, with seven wins to six in the Demons' favour.
6. Rory Sloane (No.8) and Eddie Betts (No.31) are the top ranked Crows in the Schick AFL Player Ratings. Melbourne's highest-ranked player is Nathan Jones (No.58).
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR … Bernie Vince
The 2009 Adelaide best and fairest winner always sets himself for a big battle against his former club. Vince, a South Australian at heart, remains a popular figure even with Adelaide supporters. The smooth-moving half-back flanker has been in excellent form and would love to get one over his ex-teammates.
PREDICTION: Adelaide by 24 points
