THIS shapes as another classic between these two clubs. Geelong almost certainly secured another top-four finish last Saturday, narrowly holding off a fast-finishing Fremantle. Carlton has won three of its past five games, the two defeats being against top-four teams, the Sydney Swans and Freo. The Blues were unlucky not to take the points against the Cats at Etihad Stadium earlier this season, but this time they must find a way to restrict the significant influence of Geelong spearhead Tom Hawkins. Unlike past seasons Etihad Stadium holds no fears for Carlton, having won six of its past seven games at the venue.

WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Friday August 15, 7.50pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for the broadcast guide

LAST FIVE TIMES
R12, 2014, Geelong 16.11 (107) d Carlton 15.12 (102) at Etihad Stadium
R3, 2013, Geelong 18.11 (119) d Carlton 15.13 (103) at Etihad Stadium
R11, 2012, Geelong 14.13 (97) d Carlton 11.19 (85) at Etihad Stadium
R9, 2011, Geelong 15.12 (102) d Carlton 14.16 (100) at Etihad Stadium
R21, 2010, Geelong 18.13 (121) d Carlton 12.7 (79) at Etihad Stadium

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THE SIX POINTS
1. In their round 12 encounter Geelong had more disposals and inside 50s but Carlton had more tackles, hit-outs and marks.

2. Geelong has taken more contested marks this season than any other team, averaging 11.3 a game. Carlton is ranked 10th, with an average of 9.4.

3. Geelong enjoys a remarkable record against Carlton at Etihad Stadium, undefeated from 12 contests. Five have been decided by more than 50 points.

4. Despite sitting in the top four, Geelong continues to be the worst clearance team this season, averaging only 33.3 a game. Carlton is equal ninth with an average of 38.7.

5. The two most popular players with the umpires this season will clash in the midfield. Rival skippers Marc Murphy and Joel Selwood are ranked one and two for free kicks with 51 and 50 respectively.

6. Midfielder Tom Bell had a superb game against Gold Coast last Saturday, booting a career-best four goals. He also earned a career-high 26 points in the Official AFL Player Ratings.

PREDICTION: Carlton by 10 points.