DETAILS:  Brisbane v Melbourne

DATE: Monday 21 February

TIME: 7:10pm (AEDT) | 6:10pm (local time)

LOCATION: Metricon Stadium, Queensland

BROADCAST: Seven Network, Fox Footy and Kayo Sports

GAME DAY GUIDE: Available here

LAST TIME WE MET:  Round 9, 2021 | Melbourne v Brisbane | Casey Fields
In the final round of the 2021 season, Melbourne hosted Brisbane at Casey Fields in a thriller match that came right down to after the final siren.

The match started in equal fashion with each team showing flashes of strategy and game control, but a four-goal second quarter from the Lions put Melbourne on the back foot heading into half-time.

Down by two goals at the last break, the home side needed a final-quarter push and that’s exactly what they did. A kick-start from Alyssa Bannan and an epic last-minute goal from Tyla Hanks pushed the Demons to a one-point lead with 10 minutes left on the clock.

Dees fans breathed a collective sigh of relief when Brisbane's Greta Bodey fell short on an after-the-siren shot at goal, seeing Melbourne secure the win at 6.2 (38) to 6.0 (36).

PLAYERS TO WATCH: Melbourne
Olivia Purcell
It’s been a long time on the sidelines for Melbourne recruit Olivia Purcell, but this week will likely see the 21-year-old make her return. Last weekend, Purcell played her first full game of football since suffering her ACL injury back in February of 2021. If the fiery competitor comes into the side on Monday, she will strengthen Melbourne’s midfield stocks, while also providing another resource up forward with her goal-kicking craft.

Tayla Harris
Since debuting for the red and blue back in Round 1, Harris has become one of Melbourne’s most consistent performers, kicking 11 goals over her six games - the second highest goal tally in the league. She continues to provide great strength in the air and is leading the competition in contested marks, proving how important she is to the side’s makeup.

Libby Birch
There’s no doubt that Birch is one of the league’s top defenders, currently averaging 6.7 intercept possessions – the equal third highest average in the competition. Her reliability to cut off the opposition’s forward half entries is key to her game, and her football IQ is as good as it gets, providing a great resource for her teammates during games.

PLAYERS TO WATCH: Brisbane
Alexander Anderson
When it comes to Brisbane talent, Alexander Anderson is the obvious choice. Averaging 7.5 contested possessions, Anderson is up for a midfield battle, her ball-winning ability her top skill. Anderson was Brisbane’s best afield during their last match-up with 22 disposals and six tackles, so will be on Melbourne’s radar in preparation for Round 7.  

Orla O’Dwyer
O’Dwyer is an athletic midfielder who provides Brisbane with speed and run long the wing. Currently averaging 17 disposals and four tackles, the former Gaelic footballer delivers run across the ground and depth with her forward half entries. With a similar game style to Melbourne’s Eliza McNamara, the two will be a match-up to watch.

Natalie Grider
This young defender hasn’t slowed down since her breakout season in 2021. Averaging 6.6 intercept possessions, a team-high for Brisbane, Grider is a defensive stalwart for her side. The 2021 premiership player is also somewhat of a ball magnet, averaging 15.4 disposals. She’ll be a challenge for Melbourne’s forwards on Monday night.

COACH’S VIEW: Mick Stinear
“There was plenty to take out of last week’s match against GWS. The group is continuing to evolve in every match this season, but consistency remains a key focus for us,” Stinear said.

“This eight-day break has allowed the group to refresh, both mentally and physically, and prepare themselves for a tough contest in enemy territory on Monday night.

“Travelling interstate can pose as a challenge, but we’re looking forward to heading up to Metricon for what we think will be a good contest between ourselves and the reigning premiers.”