Sydney v Melbourne, SCG
Thursday, March 7, 7.30pm AEDT
Last time: Melb 11.11 (77) d Syd 7.14 (56), R24, 2023
What it means
Sydney snuck into the top eight last year despite an injury-riddled campaign that hit its tall stocks particularly hard, with Lance Franklin one of several Swans to be sidelined. The superstar forward's misfortune gave more opportunities to emerging key forwards like Logan McDonald, who now need to take the reins if the Swans are to set themselves up for another deep run in September.
Melbourne will be counting down to the season-opener more than most following a off-season disrupted by off-field sagas and the heartbreaking retirement of Angus Brayshaw. But once the action starts the Demons have the pedigree to again challenge for the top four and chase a second flag to add to their breakthrough premiership in 2021.
Game shapers
Sydney is set to rely on new ruck Brodie Grundy more than initially hoped with fellow recruit Taylor Adams, stand-alone skipper Callum Mills and veteran onballer Luke Parkerall sidelined with injury. The two-time All-Australian faces a tough first test in red and white but will be out to prove a point against the side that left him languishing in the VFL at the pointy end last year.
Melbourne midfielder Clayton Oliver has overcome an interrupted pre-season in time to earn selection in Opening Round but it remains to be seen whether he has the form and fitness to have his usual influence. The three-time All-Australian is sure to return to his familiar role in the middle, even if on reduced minutes, as the Demons start life without the recently-retired Brayshaw.
Early tip: Sydney by seven points
