INS/OUTS: Unchanged

After a Round 1 victory over the SUNS, Melbourne has opted to stick with the same side for Saturday’s match against Richmond.

The mix of youth and experience seemed to work well for the Dees last week, with plenty of talent, energy and composure on display.

Each of the three draftees in Alyssa Bannan, Eliza McNamara and Megan Fitzsimon have all kept their sort, and will be eager to build on some momentum in Round 2.

The ones that miss

Despite being close, Maddi Gay will remain on the sidelines with her quad injury. She’ll look to be back in Round 3 after getting through another week of training.

Meg Downie is still a couple of weeks off her return from a high ankle sprain.

Back home

It’s been 335 days since Melbourne last played at Casey Fields.

The Demons hosted the Eagles back in Round 5 of the 2020 season, and having travelled north last week, are yet to run out on their home deck in 2021.

There’s still a limited number of tickets available through Ticketmaster, for members and supporters who are yet to secure their attendance.

Oppo watch

After going up against Gold Coast for the first time last week, Saturday’s game will also be an inaugural clash with Richmond.

The Tigers, who joined the competition last season, are coming off a loss to Brisbane, but showed some promising signs in Round 1.

They’ll be looking to secure their first victory in the AFL Women’s competition, while the Dees will be keen to make it two on the trot.

Look out for

The colour – it’s the first competition-wide AFL Women’s Pride Round.

Melbourne and Richmond will wear rainbow socks to mark the occasion, while on-field umpire flags, the 50m arc and logos on the wing will also carry a rainbow pride theme.

Check out Melbourne’s full team below.