We take a look at five key match-ups that could decide who wins tonight's round one clash against Collingwood at the MCG from 7.50pm.
Rhys Stanley V Brodie Grundy
Rhys Stanley will face off against last year’s All Australian ruckman, Brodie Grundy.
Grundy’s impact on the game last year was undeniable, establishing himself as the best tackling ruckman in the competition.
He laid 134 tackles, with the second highest coming from Jarrod Witts at just 86.
Stanley will have to make use of every ounce of athleticism in his 200cm frame to challenge Grundy in contests.
Mitch Duncan V Steele Sidebottom
Two elite midfielders capable of playing inside and on the wing, Sidebottom and Duncan both play with poise and intelligence.
They are considered ‘elite’ by AFL stats pro in goal assists and uncontested possessions through 2018. Although, Duncan had a much better kicking efficiency at 69.5% compared to Sidebottom at 58.7%.
Sidebottom could receive a leg up through the game with his ability to pressure the ball at a high rate.
Either way, both will put on a show for fans in one-on-one contests and delivering the ball inside 50.
Gary Rohan V Jack Crisp
Crisp will need to be on his A game tonight.
By all reports, Rohan has had a terrific season and has settled into Geelong’s forward line seamlessly, after an outstanding preseason game against Essendon.
His combination of speed and skill will test Collingwood’s ability to communicate in defence to try and prevent Rohan from getting goals on the board.
Tom Hawkins V Jordan Roughead
Collingwood’s untested back-man, Jordan Roughead, faces the daunting task of trying to stop Hawkins from tearing the Collingwood defence to shreds.
Playing mainly as a ruckman in his time at the Bulldogs, Roughead only managed 12 games in 2018 due to injury.
Hawkins, however, is coming off one of his best seasons to date.
He placed third in the Coleman Medal, third in goal accuracy, second in total marks inside 50 and first in total score involvements in 2018.
Good luck Roughead.
Geelong’s Defence V Mason Cox
The colossal American will give last year’s best defence a run for its money with his incredible reach and marking ability.
During a press conference yesterday, Mark Blicavs said he’ll rotate onto Cox with Harry Taylor, but it’ll take a whole defensive effort to stop him.
Cox dismantled Richmond in last year’s preliminary final, kicking three goals and taking 11 marks.
Blicavs, however, proved to be one of the competitions most effective full backs.
He was sixth in total spoils for the season and lost only 11 of his 70 defensive one-on-one contests.
