Media
Simon Lethlean, AFL General Manager of Broadcasting, Scheduling and Legal Affairs
Friday nights: "They've (the Kangaroos) been crying out for Friday night matches. They have an exciting brand of football and their strong performance last year (2012) got them it (three Friday nights) in 2013."
Hobart: "We've got those games at the front end of the year because the ground (Blundstone Arena) is being demolished and renovated. It's the second year of the deal down there to play two games which is great.
Tougher draw: "Because North is now a top eight side, the Roos have received three Friday night games in recognition of their style of play and performance. This also brings with it some harder return match-ups against top eight sides than what they had in 2012 when they were a bottom 10 side.
Mark Macgugan, AFL.com.au
"They have the equal highest number of six day breaks. While success has come at a price on the football front, it has also meant the Roos have got their wish for more Friday night football."
Rohan Connolly, The Age
"Has copped a very tough whack. Roos face three of the top four twice, have two trips to Perth, more six-day breaks than anyone and a very challenging start to the season."
Matt Windley, Herald Sun
"North finally getting a bit of AFL respect! Three Friday night games (two at home, one in Perth). They've got eight six-day breaks - the most in the comp. They play Hawthorn, Adelaide, Collingwood and Geelong twice each - that's tough.
Jess Bomford: If we deserve to play finals, we need to beat the top 8 sides. this draw is perfect, no better chance for finals practice than playing the teams we'll most likely face.
Dylan Belbin: I'm glad we're playing the top teams if we make it to September again our young guns will be experienced and ready for it. Three Friday night games is awesome.
Darren Murphy: Good stuff, club should be getting a more equal share of the Friday night games and 3 is much fairer than one or none. Well earned by the lads after a good year and some exciting footy to watch.
@Sora96: Last three premiers to open the season. Announcement time!
@MKPS001: Finally, Friday night matches begin to return to the creators. Three Friday night games at last! Go North Melbourne!
@_RossPayne: Tough draw for North Melbourne but a real money spinner...Haw, Coll and Geel twice in Melb, 3x Fri nights
@blitzz7: Wow tough back end to the North fixture, have to do our damage early! But finally some more Friday night games!
