SUMMARY
These clubs are struggling at the end of tough campaigns. Apart from one quarter last Sunday, the Demons appeared listless as they capitulated to a red-hot Bulldogs outfit. Coach Paul Roos has stressed the importance of finishing the season strongly, and Melbourne returns to the home of footy where they have scored five of their six victories this season. In contrast, the Blues have won only once at the MCG, by four points against Port Adelaide in round 12. Carlton was pitiful after quarter-time last week against the Lions and needs a win to avoid its fourth wooden spoon in 14 seasons.
WHERE AND WHEN: MCG, Sunday, August 23, 3.20pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for the broadcast guide
PAST FIVE TIMES
R4, 2014, Melbourne 12.9 (81) d Carlton 7.16 (58) at the MCG
R6, 2013, Carlton 18.13 (121) d Melbourne 8.12 (60) at the MCG
R9, 2012, Carlton 15.17 (107) d Melbourne 6.13 (49) at the MCG
R20, 2011, Carlton 21.8 (134) d Melbourne 7.16 (58) at the MCG
R10, 2011, Carlton 13.15 (93) d Melbourne 6.10 (46) at the MCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. Despite losing the last time these clubs met, Carlton had more disposals (374-323), marks (99-87), scoring shots (23-21) and inside 50s (47-45).
2. Both teams have struggled to take the ball inside 50. The Blues are 16th this season with 44.8 a game and Melbourne is last, averaging 43.3.
3. The Demons’ win over the Blues last year ended a seven-game losing sequence. Before that victory Melbourne had not defeated Carlton since late in 2007.
4. Melbourne averages fewer centre clearances than any other team (10.4). By contrast Carlton has been impressive, ranked second with 13.7.
5. After 19 games the Blues average only 70.5 a game, ranked 17th. The Demons’ ability to score has been marginally better, ranked 15th with 71.6.
6. Demon Angus Brayshaw ranks second among the first-year players in the Official AFL Player Ratings (No. 416 overall), behind Gold Coast’s Touk Miller. Blaine Boekhorst is the highest-ranked Blue (No. 590 overall).
IT’S A BIG WEEK FOR … Jeff Garlett. After being traded by the Blues at the end of last season the speedy forward will be determined to perform well in his first game against his former club. He has been a fine contributor in attack this season, kicking 35 goals.
PREDICTION: Melbourne by 18 points.
