First quarter:
Fremantle conceded seven first quarter goals against a rampant West Coast in Sunday’s Carlton Draught Derby. While it won the next three quarters, kicking 10 goals to eight, it will need to improve its start against a fast-running and scoring Kangaroos outfit. North Melbourne was also slow out of the blocks against St Kilda last week, before kicking 14 second half goals.
Ruck battle:
The Kangaroos’ Todd Goldstein and Freo’s Aaron Sandilands are ranked one and two, respectively, for hit-outs this season. Who wins the hit-out and clearance count will go a long way towards winning the game. In the previous clash this season, Goldstein won 31 hit-outs, while Sandilands won 30.
Defenders:
Alex Silvagni will miss due to a four-game suspension but is likely to be replaced by Zac Dawson, also returning from suspension after a two-game sanction for striking Giant Jeremy Cameron in round 18. Luke McPharlin, who missed last week’s derby due to a calf strain, is set to bolster the back six.
Neale's 'sleepless nights' after derby display
Etihad Stadium:
It will be the first time these two teams have met under the roof since round 22, 2012. Fremantle won that encounter by 53-points. Hayden Ballantyne and Michael Walters booted four goals each. Fremantle has won both its clashes, against the Western Bulldogs and St Kilda, at the ground this year.
