Chris Mayne says the prospect of facing a hot North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium with Fremantle’s finals destiny likely hinging on the outcome of Sunday’s clash is what the game is all about.

A Freo defeat would open the door for fast-finishing Carlton to nab the final spot in the eight with victories over Gold Coast (Metricon) and St Kilda (Etihad).

Win and Ross Lyon’s men can book their spot in September with a win over lowly Melbourne at Patersons Stadium in round 23.

"It's going to be an enormous challenge for us, but that's why you play footy,” Mayne said of the clash with the Kangaroos’, who can all but confirm a home final with a win.

"You want the challenge and you want to be able to go over to Melbourne, to Etihad Stadium, where we have played well, and take on a team that is contending for finals."

Mayne said the Roos were in great form and had proved that by beating Collingwood at Etihad on Saturday night.

"They've got heaps of strengths," he said.

"Their midfield's going really well, their forwards are kicking goals and their backs are stopping goals.

“At the moment, they're just a well balanced side."