SUMMARY
Melbourne ensured Adelaide earned its 22-point victory at the MCG last Sunday, but it was still not quite good enough to claim a top-eight scalp. The Demons have struggled to maintain their consistency across games and it came back to bite against the Crows. However, Melbourne's eight-goal third term provided a snapshot of what it is capable of when on song. After a dreadful start to the season, the Dockers have won three of their last four games and are playing much better football. Notwithstanding, the Demons' form line has been more convincing and they will go into the match as clear favourites.
Max Gawn could dominate the ruck and the game against Fremantle. Picture: AFL Media
WHERE AND WHEN: TIO Stadium, Darwin, Saturday, July 9, 7.10pm ACST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R22, 2015, Fremantle 17.6 (108) d Melbourne 8.6 (54) at Domain Stadium
R5, 2015, Fremantle 18.10 (118) d Melbourne 6.14 (50) at the MCG
R16, 2014, Fremantle 15.7 (97) d Melbourne 4.10 (34) at TIO Stadium
R21, 2013, Fremantle 20.13 (133) d Melbourne 5.8 (38) at the MCG
R9, 2013, Fremantle 19.16 (130) d Melbourne 6.4 (40) at Domain Stadium
THE SIX POINTS
1. Melbourne is ranked second for clearances in 2016, averaging 39.9 per game. Fremantle is 11th in the AFL in clearances.
2. Fremantle has dominated against Melbourne recently, winning the last seven matches. The Demons have been held under 10 goals in each of the last six games.
3. The Demons have been strong for centre clearances in 2016, ranked second in the AFL (14 per game). The Dockers are ranked 13th (12.2).
4. Melbourne hasn't enjoyed too much success at TIO Stadium, with two wins from six games. Fremantle has played twice in Darwin for one win.
5. The Demons continue to be extremely accurate, ranked second in the League at 55.6 per cent. The Dockers are at 47.9 per cent.
6. Bernie Vince (101st in the AFL) is close to becoming the fifth Demon to join the top 100 in the Schick AFL Player Ratings. The Dockers have six players in the top 100.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR … Max Gawn
With Aaron Sandilands still sidelined, the big Melbourne ruckman could be a dominant force against the Dockers. If Gawn, who leads the League in hit-outs (41.9 per game), is best afield then Melbourne is likely to win.
PREDICTION: Melbourne by 15 points
