A Grand Final rematch to kick-off the 2022 AFL season

MELBOURNE are preparing to kick-off their 2022 AFL season in style with a blockbuster grand final rematch against the Western Bulldogs.

The reigning premiers will host the Dogs at their spiritual home in what will be an exciting return to football for the MCG.

Here's what you can expect at the 'G on Wednesday night.

Match details

MELBOURNE V WESTERN BULLDOGS

Date: Wednesday 16 March 
Time: 7:10pm (AEDT)
Location: MCG 

2021 Premiership flag unfurling

In an AFL first, Melbourne will honour its loyal members when it unfurls the 2021 AFL premiership flag in two weeks’ time.

The surnames of all members from the historic year will feature on its back and will be revealed in a special moment at the MCG in Round 1.

It’s the first time in AFL history that members have been recognised in such a way, reflecting how significant the victory was for the club and the Demon faithful alike.

The reveal will be part of unmissable proceedings ahead of the match with eight club legends coming together on the night to take part in official flag bearer duties, representing all those who have helped make the club what it is today. 

Former Demons Ron Barassi, Hassa Mann, Greg Wells, Stan Alves, Garry Lyon, Todd Viney, David Neitz and Nathan Jones will all be involved, in a nod to history.

The flag unfurling is scheduled to take place at 6:40pm, with the first bounce scheduled for 7:10pm.

AFL Festival of Footy

The AFL will be celebrating its Festival of Footy with a number of exciting activities and giveaways to enjoy around the ground on Wednesday.

The 2021 Premiership Cup will be available to see on the concourse from 4 – 4:45pm prior to gates opening, with face painting and balloon stations, live music and more. 

Haymes Paint Kick | New Balance’s Demon Dash

Haymes Paint’s Kick for Cash will make its return at quarter time, while New Balance’s Demon Dash will also be an exciting addition to the game day line-up, with the foot race featuring at three-quarter time.

Ticketing

With an unlimited capacity at the Demons' spiritual home, Melbourne is excited to welcome its members and supporters back to the MCG for the season-opener.

Click here to book your spot at the game.

Fans are also able to purchase walk-up tickets on the day of the match, with the box office open ahead of the game. 

General Admission Seating 
Great Southern Stand
M5-M7
Q1-Q12
Q13-Q15 1/2 (rows K-DD)

Ponsford Stand
M28-M32
Q28-Q36

Olympic Stand
Q49-Q52 (rows T-MM)
Q53-55 (rows K-MM)

Membership Information

As the league shifts away from physical membership cards, the Demon faithful will now be able to access their membership and scan into games via the Melbourne Football Club app on iPhone and Android devices.

The club is encouraging all members to load their Mobile Membership to their device before arriving at the ground.

Tickets will be available to view in the app 72 hours prior to each home game.

Mobile Membership How-To Guide

To assist with any game day enquiries around match access, our team will be available on the phones. Call 1300 DEMONS (1300 336 667) for any queries ahead of 6:00pm. 

Membership Hub

To assist with any game day enquiries around match access, our team will be available at our Membership Hub, which will be open from 4:00pm and will be located at Gate 3. 

Additionally, scarf collection will unfortunately not be available at the Membership Hub.

Getting to the MCG

Parking

The MCG’s parking spaces in Yarra Park will be open for those wishing to drive to the game.

Click here for parking information and continue to check regularly for updates.

Fans who are driving to the game should be aware of the below road closures:
Brunton Avenue: 5.00pm-10.50pm
Jolimont Street & Terrace: 5.00pm-10.50pm
Wellington Parade: 9.50pm-10.20pm

More info on MCG parking can be found here.

Public Transport

By train, you can walk to the MCG from Richmond and Jolimont stations.

Multiple tram routes also stop close to the stadium, including the 70 (via Melbourne Park light rail), the 48 and 75 (both Wellington Parade).

To map out your trip to the 'G, use the PTV Journey Planner.

MCG COVID-Safe practices

In line with the Victorian Government health directives for major events at the MCG, entry will only be granted to fully vaccinated patrons. Patrons must also check-in to the MCG upon entry via QR code using the Service Victoria App. Patrons 18 years and over must provide proof of vaccination status and proof of check-in.

For more on the MCG’s vaccination requirements, visit the MCG website.

Arrive early

With the process for admission including more steps In 2022, we are encouraging fans to arrive early to the MCG to ensure fans are inside in time for the flag unfurling and match start.

The entry process will now include QR code check-in and proof of vaccination, security bag checks, scanning of ticket and finding you spot to enjoy the game live.

We encourage supporters to download their ticket prior to their arrival at the MCG.

Gates open

5:00pm: MCC Members Reserve
5:00pm: AFL Reserve and Public Gates

The Demon Shop

The shop will be open from 12:00pm, until one hour after the final siren.

The Demon Shop is located on Brunton Avenue, underneath light tower 4. 

More location info can be found here. 

Stadium Facilities

Find out more on the below stadium facilities:
- Food outlets
- Bars and cafes
- Accessible facilities

A stadium directory is available here.

Follow the Game

Broadcast and streaming

The game will be broadcast nationally via the Seven Network, Fox Footy and Kayo Sports from 7:00pm (AEDT).

Radio

Tune in on the below stations:
- Triple M
- 3AW
- SEN
- ABC 774
- AFL Nation
- 6PR (Perth)
- 5AA (Adelaide)

Check the AFL Broadcast Guide for interstate and regional radio timings.

Match Centre

Get live scores, stats and highlights via the Demons Match Centre. Available on the website and mobile app.

Social Media

Follow us across social media for a behind-the-scenes insight on game day as well as live match updates as they happen.

Use the hashtags #AFLDeesDogs and #DemonSpirit to join the conversation.

Facebook: facebook.com/MelbourneFC
Twitter: @MelbourneFC
Instagram: @melbournefc
TikTok: @melbournefc