Just 24 hours earlier, Jay Schulz, a similar type of key-forward kicked seven goals straight to lead Port Adelaide to its victory at AAMI Stadium. Having to deal with two players similar could be a headache for the North Melbourne defensive six.
Merrett was red-hot in the first quarter on Sunday, kicking five goals and being essentially undefendable. He started his career at the other end of the ground and was one of the best key defenders in the competition before Michael Voss opted to add the Lions' firepower in attack.
While it took Merrett some time to adjust to his different role, it now seems he's put his experience down back to good use. A common remark from players who've switched roles is that they use their own tricks as a defender to take advantage of their opponents. Merrett's body-work held him in good stead on the opposition's big forwards, but last week it paid even greater dividends in attack.
Merrett is yet to ply his trade up forward against North, so Brad Scott and his match commitee will have plenty to study before choosing a suitable match-up. Nathan Grima was impressive in a key-post during his first game for the season and could be the first option, though Luke Delaney, Scott Thompson and Michael Firrito are all more than capable of the role.
The job on Merrett is just as important as shutting down Brown. If the number 21 is able to find similar form to last week, defenders will be forced to rotate and help whoever is playing on him. This scenario would leave the Kangaroos exposed with Brown given more space to work in.
While Merrett turned in a quality match last weekend, the skipper has a proven track record of taking sides to the sword if given the freedom.
In his AFL debut last season, Delaney was faced with a grueling introduction, given the job on Brown. He manned Schulz for much of the game on Saturday, but it could be argued if not for a lack of pressure up the field his opponent wouldn't have had the same impact.
The older of the Delaney brothers, Luke could put his experience from last year's meeting to use and will no doubt be eyeing a second crack at the Lions' power-forward.
However, due to Merrett's form it could mean Brown plays further up the ground as a true centre half-forward. If this is the case, Cam Delaney could be given the mighty challenge as Brown looks to exploit North with his elite endurance. Thompson is another who could fill the role.
The role of the midfield also plays a part in how successful the defenders will be. If the likes of Simon Black, Daniel Rich and co are allowed to gather uncontested possessions, it makes the job for the back six all the more difficult.
North Melbourne v Brisbane Lions
Sunday 27th May, 1.10pm EST
Etihad Stadium
