THREE KEY MATCH-UPS

DUSTIN MARTIN v RORY SLOANE

Neither coach is a huge fan of the hard tag, which leaves the door open for this megastar match-up. GWS’s Stephen Coniglio kept Martin reasonably quiet in the first half last week, but he helped break the game open when he was moved to the goal square and kicked three goals in a row. Sloane isn’t as big a scoreboard threat, but will hurt the Tigers with his influence at stoppages.

TAYLOR WALKER v ALEX RANCE

Walker has kicked 52 goals this year and hasn’t been kept goalless once, but his influence extends further than his individual output. The selfless Crows skipper creates plenty of scoring opportunities for his teammates, leading the league in goal assists. Of course, Rance is an opponent who commands the utmost respect. His ability to nullify an opponent and create from defence is second to none.

JACK RIEWOLDT v DANIEL TALIA

Riewoldt was quiet with just one goal against the Giants and while his role is more than just hitting the scoreboard himself these days he’ll want to do better tomorrow. That’s easier said than done against Talia, a two-time All- Australian full-back who is in good form. Talia will need to be at his best when the ball hits the ground too, with a key part of Riewoldt’s role to help feed the Tigers’ brigade of dangerous small forwards.