RICHMOND v ST KILDA, Etihad Stadium, Friday, 7.40pm

The story so far: You would have to travel far and wide to hear a batter rendition of a club song than that sung by the Tigers after their first win of 2010 in the slush against Port Adelaide last week. The Saints ran all over Adelaide in the final stanza last week and remain on track for a top four finish.

Why to watch: A rare chance to watch Tiger young guns Trent Cotchin and Dustin Martin in prime-time. And perhaps the last time to watch Ben Cousins.

We think: Behind the euphoria of Richmond's first-up win is a 1-9 scoreline so far in 2010. The Saints are too good to let this one slip.

St Kilda by 45

CARLTON v MELBOURNE, MCG, Saturday, 2.10pm

The story so far: The Blues bounced back last week, but need some more wins on the trot to push for the top four. The Demons didn't win at Geelong last week. Mind you, nor does anyone else.

Why to watch: We were going to say Brock McLean versus his old club but the killjoys on the Carlton match committee ruined that one for us.

We think: The Demons are now at the stage we're they're competitive nearly every week. This will be close, but the Blues have more polish.

Carlton by 14

ADELAIDE v FREMANTLE, AAMI Stadium, Saturday, 2.40pm (CST)

The story so far: The Crows are stuffed, so much so that this game against the Dockers marks the first of what could be up to five farewell games. This week, Tyson Edwards.

Why to watch: Matthew Pavlich is firming for the Brownlow by the week. He'll show the folks in his home town why on Saturday afternoon.

We think: This might be the biggest game the Crows play for the rest of the season given the occasion, but the Dockers have been excellent on the road all year.

Fremantle by 12

NORTH MELBOURNE v BRISBANE LIONS, Etihad Stadium, Saturday, 7.10pm

The story so far: Not much Shinboner spirit in the way the Kangas capitulated last week. Brisbane righted its season in stirring fashion at the Gabba against Collingwood, but at 5-5, needs to keep winning.

Why to watch: two of Leigh Matthews' favourites meet in the coaches box for the first time.

We think: Lions look too potent up forward and have the bigger midfield bodies.

Brisbane by 21

WEST COAST v GEELONG, Subiaco, Saturday, 5.40pm (WST)

The story so far: The Cats keep doing what they do best - winning - while the West Coast powerbrokers have taken to the hustings to ensure the world that Woosha's job is safe.

Why to watch: The Cats play a lot of one-sided matches, but as their song tells us, they play the game the way it should be played.

We think: Josh Kennedy aside, the Eagles don't have the spread of goalkickers to worry the Cats.

Geelong by 31

SYDNEY v ESSENDON, SCG, Sunday, 1.10pm

The story so far: Four straight losses for the Swans, who after a fine start are now 5-5. So too are the Bombers but with two straight wins they're one of the form teams of the competition.

Why to watch: Because turning home at 6-5 is better than 5-6. Can the Swans bring the run-and-gun game of the pacy Bombers to a halt?

We think: Tough game to pick, but the Swans generally play the SCG well.

Sydney by 6

HAWTHORN v PORT ADELAIDE, MCG, Sunday, 2.10pm

The story so far: The Hawks have won three straight and are starting to show some form. But they've lost Buddy to suspension again. Port handed Richmond its first win of the season last week. Enough said.

Why to watch: Did Shaun Burgoyne really leave Port on good terms? The first few minutes on Sunday will reveal plenty.

We think: Port always plays well against the Hawks and Hawthorn's injuries and suspensions will really hurt.

Port Adelaide by 6

COLLINGWOOD v WESTERN BULLDOGS, Sunday, 4.40pm

The story so far: Collingwood's ability to kick cricket-like scores with up to a dozen goalkickers, has ground to a screeching halt. The Pies have lost two straight. The Bulldogs are 6-4 and haven't quite kicked into gear.

Why to watch: Two really good teams in front of a loud and packed crowd at the Dome. Good for footy.

We think: Toss of the coin. Collingwood won the corresponding match just 10 weeks ago, so we'll back a repeat performance.

Collingwood by 5