Fourth hosts third at the MCG on Friday night

The Lions are two games clear of the Demons before this second and last hit-out at the MCG ahead of the finals ... they’re 1-13 at the ground since 2015, having lost to Hawthorn a month ago.

But despite what coach Chris Fagan might say, they’ll feel better about their prospects in September with a win there this year.

There are just two games on Sunday and Richmond will almost certainly stay in touching distance with the eight – and gain a bonus percentage boost – with a big win over a battling West Coast

The North Melbourne v Hawthorn game has no bearing on the eight, but a win to the Hawks at Marvel Stadium will just about settle the order of the bottom three for the remainder of the season.

It is never too early to start speculating about the 2023 draft.

Saturday, days after signing a two-year contract extension.

Through 11 games, he has averaged 18.6 disposals and 5.1 marks, including five games where he has recorded 20 disposals or more.

Mitchell played with Robinvale-Euston in the Sunraysia League and was selected at No. 29 in the 2020 NAB AFL Draft from the Bendigo Pioneers.

He and Josh Weddle are the Hawks to have received Rising Star nominations so far this year.

ASHLEY BROWNE