It has to be the first test in the 2008 Toyota International Rules Series.
Australia v Ireland, and the only chance for the Aussies to play for their country.
Light rain falling, after it absolutely bucketed down throughout the day, but still more than 30,000 fans are expected to be into support their respective national teams.
With lines of fans outside, the crowd is building in the ground at the rate of a thousand or so every couple of minutes, and a palpable tension is invading the ground for the first time since August.
Outside the ground, plenty of Kelly Green could be seen, mixed in with Aussie gold, Richmond jumpers, Collingwood jackets, Eagles scarves and beanies. Soccer-style chants rang out around the ground.
Darren and a mate made the decision to visit Australia a couple of months ago, and said he was certain his side would teach the Aussies a lesson.
"Back in August we decided to come, myself and Keiron. It's a pretty good concept – as long as it's competitive and Ireland win," he said with a laugh.
"The Aussie team are fairly strong, but if it rains that'll probably help the Irish players."
Steve was just as adamant that the Aussies would prevail.
"I got tickets for it last week, and I'm coming here with my mates," he said.
"I think it's a magnificent concept. Considering the idea of state of origin has been diminished since the interstate teams started paying in the competition, it's a great thing.
"If it rains, I think that the Irish will have an advantage given the rain they get over there, but on the other hand, with our indigenous players we should be right given their unreal skills.
"I'm a North Melbourne supporter, so it's great to see the Kangaroo boys getting a run."
Both national anthems, the traditional roar at the end of the Australian one, and the battle is ready to be joined.
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The 2008 Toyota International Rules Series: Australia v Ireland
Second Test – MCG, Melbourne, Friday October 31
Tickets on sale now at ticketmaster.com.au, by calling 1300 136 122 or at a Ticketmaster outlet.
For full coverage of the 2008 series, click here.
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The views in this story are those of the author and not necessarily those of the clubs or the AFL.
