Geelong has an outstanding recent record against North Melbourne, having won eight of the 10 matches played between the teams since the Roos scored an upset victory in round five, 2007. But things have begun to change recently, with North taking the points in two of the past three clashes. This time around, the Roos have again struck the Cats at a vulnerable time. Chris Scott's men are in a bit of a flat spot, having lost to Port Adelaide and Fremantle in recent weeks. But which version of Brad Scott's side will turn up? The one that beat the Dockers at Patersons Stadium or the one that lost to Gold Coast at home?
WHERE AND WHEN: Simonds Stadium, Friday May 23, 7.50pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for the broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R19, 2013, North Melbourne 15.6 (96) d Geelong 13.8 (86) at Etihad Stadium
R2, 2013, Geelong 16.16 (112) d North Melbourne 17.6 (108) at Etihad Stadium
R3, 2012, North Melbourne 20.11 (131) d Geelong 16.18 (114) at Etihad Stadium
R7, 2011, Geelong 19.13 (127) d North Melbourne 9.7 (61) at Simonds Stadium
R14, 2010, Geelong 14.14 (98) d North Melbourne 9.9 (63) at Simonds Stadium
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THE SIX POINTS
1. North Melbourne has struggled to get the ball inside 50 this season. The Kangaroos are ranked third-last, with an average of 47.5 inside-50s per game, while Geelong is seventh, with 54.1 per game.
3. Geelong has won seven of the past eight clashes between these sides at Simonds Stadium, including the past four by 33, 70, 35 and 66 points.
5. Neither side has been strong at centre clearances this season. Geelong is ranked 11th and North Melbourne is 17th.
6. When North Melbourne defeated Geelong late last season, Cats dasher Steven Motlop was the best player on the ground according to the Official AFL Player Ratings, brought to you by Gatorade. Motlop scored 26 points, while North's Daniel Wells was next-best with 21.4.
Prediction: Geelong by 18 points
