This is a must-win for North Melbourne if they are to be a serious top eight contender. The Kangaroos have just two wins so far this season, which doesn't reflect their strong form to start the year. The Western Bulldogs need to produce a more competitive effort than last week's 70-point thumping by West Coast. Importantly, their young players are gaining valuable game experience, which will hold them in good stead for the years to come, but they need to see results their hard work deserves.
WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Saturday May 11, 4.40pm
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide and odds
LAST FIVE TIMES
R19, 2012, North Melbourne 18.7 (115) d Western Bulldogs 8.13 (61) at Etihad Stadium
R7, 2012, Western Bulldogs 15.11 (101) d North Melbourne 12.11 (83) at Etihad Stadium
R17, 2011, North Melbourne 21.16 (142) d Western Bulldogs 17.9 (111) at Etihad Stadium
R18, 2010, Western Bulldogs 22.11 (143) d North Melbourne 10.12 (72) at Etihad Stadium
R9, 2010, Western Bulldogs 20.7 (127) d North Melbourne 7.15 (57) at Etihad Stadium
THE SIX POINTS
1. The Kangaroos have won two of the last three clashes between the sides, but the Bulldogs have held the advantage since 2009, winning five games to two.
2. The Bulldogs have won seven of their last eight round seven games, while the Kangaroos have lost four of their last six.
3. Both sides are dominating the clearances, with North Melbourne ranked second and the Western Bulldogs in third.
4. It was one win apiece in 2012 after the Bulldogs were surprise winners by 18 points in round seven, while the Kangaroos won by 54 points in round 19. Both games were at Etihad Stadium.
5. This will be the 152nd clash between the sides, and the Bulldogs hold a narrow advantage winning 75 games to 73. There have been three draws.
6. In the 15 clashes between the sides at Etihad only two have been decided by single figures.
