The summit clash between Melbourne and Melbourne City is undoubtedly the marquee matchup, and it's Melbourne City's AFL playoff debut in nine years.
Melbourne finished the regular season in third place, but lost three straight games. If Melbourne is to regain its momentum and win the playoffs, a victory in this match is essential. In this match, there is no need for external motivation, the will to fight will be ignited in Melbourne's team, and they will vow to create another glorious victory when they meet again in April.
Konaroly has been a revelation, scoring 18 goals on the season, and teammates such as McHedge and Daniel Arsini have been willing to assist the veteran in the lineup.
Melbourne City, by contrast, have had a mediocre season, narrowly missing out on a playoff berth last week with a 1-0 win in the Western Conference. Vidmar's men have conceded a lot of goals, but are not to be underestimated in the attacking department. Jimmy McCarron has been slipping, but has come through in the clutch, and the 30-year-old striker is expected to take the title with him before he leaves.
The knockout rounds will be a tight affair between these two sides, and while I'm leaning towards Melbourne City to make it to the quarterfinals, Melbourne can't be underestimated.
