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Three key match-ups in the AFL preliminary final between Melbourne and Geelong.

KEY MATCH-UPS IN MELBOURNE-GEELONG AFL PRELIMINARY FINAL

Max Gawn (Melbourne) v Rhys Stanley (Geelong)

Recent evidence suggests Stanley will do the bulk of the ruck work for Geelong in Perth. The enormity of the 30-year-old's challenge is reflected in Max Gawn's status as the best ruckman in the league, ratified with a fourth consecutive All-Australian blazer, but also his recent form. The Melbourne skipper spearheaded a comeback and nailed an after-the-siren goal to defeat the Cats in round 23, and then was likewise dominant in week one of the finals.

Steven May (Melbourne) v Tom Hawkins (Geelong)

Jake Lever and Harry Petty will provide assistance when possible but May is certain to have some match-defining one-on-one contests with Hawkins. Their first heavyweight battle of this year ended with May nursing a fractured eye socket after an accidental elbow to the head. Hawkins booted four goals during the return bout, while he was voted best on ground by both coaches after last Friday's semi-final.

Clayton Oliver (Melbourne) v Joel Selwood (Geelong)

It will be fascinating to see how the Cats attempt to curb the influence of Oliver, who last month helped himself to 37 disposals, nine clearances and two goals in Geelong. Mark O'Connor tagged the Brownlow Medal contender earlier this season but remains on the sidelines with a hamstring injury. Brandan Parfitt is another enforced omission this week, meaning it will be vital for Selwood, Cameron Guthrie and others to get their hands on the ball first if Geelong are to win the all-important midfield battle.