The North Melbourne Kangaroos face a desperate Adelaide Crows at Blundstone Arena in Hobart on Saturday afternoon. Join The Roar for live scores and updates from 1:45pm (AEST).
It’s sixth versus eighth on the ladder, and this game is a must-win for both sides.
The Roos have had a promising year, perhaps the highlight being a classy victory over Fremantle in Perth early in the season.
But as has been the case for the Kangaroos in recent years, all progress seems to be closely followed by a reason to be frustrated, earning North Melbourne the title of the most spasmodic club in the AFL.
The failings have been numerous; wilting against Geelong by more than five goals just a few weeks back, a heart-crushing defeat to a very disappointing Carlton outfit, and failing to fire against the Suns in Round 7.
To put it simply, the ‘Roos need to win for more than just the 4 points. They need to win to ensure the belief they have forged this season is present at the start of September.
But they will have to get the job done without two key players, as both Brent Harvey and Daniel Wells will sit out due to suspension.
For Adelaide, 10 wins and 10 losses is not what Brenton Sanderson would have hoped for with his seasoned list.
A midfield quartet of Patrick Dangerfield, Rory Sloane, Richard Douglas and Sam Jacobs has been well beaten at times, and Taylor Walker is still finding his feet up forward after making his way back from an ACL injury.
North Melbourne’s defence while sound on paper, is vulnerable.
North will watch Walker closely, taking much of the attention off James Podsiadly.
Podisadly has only kicked 24 goals this season, but that counts for nothing if the likes of Dangerfield, Wright and Douglas can find him close to goal.
Prediction
Adelaide have won the last three encounters between the two sides.
If Dangerfield and Sloane can get on top through the middle of the ground, then North Melbourne will be in trouble.
Adelaide by 7 points.
Join The Roar for live scores and coverage from 1:45pm (AEST).
If you are following the action live, be sure to share your thoughts on the match in the comments below.
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