Northern coaches select Melbourne, Max Gawn in AFL Grand Final

Only four selected the Bulldogs, including TSL flag coach Mitch Thorp, while 23 backed the Dees.

Max Gawn (10 selections) was a popular Norm Smith vote, as were teammates Clayton Oliver (six) and Christian Petracca (five).

"Dogs will have learned from their past encounter."

"Melbourne have proven to be the best side this season and will win in a close contest."

"When they're on, their structure will stop the chaos ball that the Doggies play."

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"Daniel's pin-point field kicking will be instrumental if the Bulldogs are to win."

"In a tight game, Max will dominate the hit-outs and be influential around the ground, kicking the goal that wins them the game."

"Contested footy is the key to grand finals and Melbourne have an abundance of tough midfielders that will win too much of the ball on the inside and put the Bulldogs defenders under immense pressure."

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"My nephew [Jay Lockhart] is in the Melbourne squad and everyone is worried about the top three for Melbourne. Viney has the grunt and toughness ready-made for a grand final."

"The belief amongst the group is high at the moment plus a few more players from the Dogs have played in a grand final."

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"Petracca will hit the scoreboard with multiple goals and 25-plus possessions."

"Bulldogs have more grand final experience."

"They ended up as minor premiers, so they should be a lot fresher than the Doggies. It could be a battle of the mids but I think the Demons' defence will hold up too strong."

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"Melbourne were strong off the break into the preliminary final and performed at a high level. They can repeat that after a similar break and with a full and healthy squad. Ruck strength is a key difference - Gawn's influence behind and in front of the ball is pivotal."

"Melbourne's backline has proven they can take down any attack and Gawn will provide his mids with the first opportunity. The Neale Daniher and Nathan Jones factor will give the Dees that little extra incentive."

"Gawn to give first use to a classy and tough on-ball brigade and Melbourne's forwards are a bit too good for the Dogs' backs."

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"I can't go past Melbourne, I can't fault any line. Tipping Gawn to have a field day against their bigs."

"Oliver is an elite midfielder with great season stats. If he plays at his best, it would be hard to match."

"Demons have been the best team all year with the best defence and the Doggies may be a key forward goal-kicker short."

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"Melbourne are just a well-drilled team and everyone understands their role."

"Steven May and Jake Lever will create too many opportunities coming off half-back."