MELBOURNE will approach Friday’s intra-club at Casey Fields as a high-level training session, rather than a practice match.  

 

Football manager Josh Mahoney said the intra-club was simply part of Melbourne’s preparations for the premiership season.

 

“It’s really the start of our next phase for the regular season,” Mahoney said.

 

“This is another training session and is part of our preparation for the NAB Cup series and for the season proper.

 

“We’re taking a conservative approach with our players across this period and if anyone has any type of niggling injury, we’ve always got their availability for the regular season at the forefront.”

 

The Demons will play eight by eight minute sections, instead of quarters, meaning there will be no half-time break.

Due to the make-up of the game, unfortunately, supporters will not be allowed onto the ground, when the team breaks for huddles.

 

Goals and behinds will not be recorded, so no scoreboard will be in operation on the day.

 

Players will also wear training jumpers on the day.

 

The intra-club will start at 3pm and entry is free.

 

The Casey Family Day will be held in conjunction with the intra-club hit-out.

 

Family day activities start from 4pm and include: player autographs and photos, a jumping castle, sausage sizzle and opportunities to purchase membership and merchandise.