Where and when: MCG, Saturday August 10, 1.45pm AEST

What it means for Melbourne: Not much more to salvage but pride from this disappointing year. A win over traditional rivals Collingwood would be a sweet note to take into the end of a sour season.

What it means for Collingwood: The push for top four continues for the Pies after their percentage-boosting win over Gold Coast. Can almost guarantee a top-six finish with a win against Melbourne.

The stat: Collingwood's biggest strength is its ability to win the ball. The Magpies lead the competition in average disposals with 403.6 a game. By contrast, Melbourne is in 13th position with an average of 363.1 touches per match.

The match-up: Max Gawn v Brodie Grundy

Everyone's favourite ruck battle. Gawn is ranked the best player in the competition in the AFL Player Ratings, while Grundy is sitting 3rd overall. Both were Virgin Australia AFL All Australians last year, with Gawn pipping Grundy for the starting ruck role.

It's a big week for: Braydon Preuss

The ruck recruit was always going to struggle to get a match ahead of Gawn but is now desperately needed as a key forward due to Melbourne's injury woes. Didn't make much of an impact against Richmond and the Dees need a marking target.

Big call: Jeremy Howe loves a hanger, especially against his old side. Don't be surprised if the JLT Mark of the Year is taken in this match.