1. One apiece

The Dogs and Dees met twice this home-and-away season – in rounds 11 and 19.

And from those two meetings, it’s one win apiece.

A hot start in Sir Doug Nicholls Round saw Melbourne kick six first-quarter goals at Marvel Stadium, resulting in a 28-point loss for the Dogs.

But the Sons of the West managed to turn things around later in the year, recording a 20-point win at the MCG.

Remarkably, tonight will be the first time – excluding the AAMI Series pre-season match – that the two sides will play off in front of a crowd.

And while we hope that Optus Stadium will be filled with red, white and blue, we’ll be feeling the love and support from back home too.

2. Stef v Max

While a lot of eyes will be on the midfield bulls, the ruck battle itself should provide some entertainment too.

Two seasoned veterans – 198-gamer Stef Martin, and 158-gamer Max Gawn.

When comparing numbers, it’s clear Gawn has had quite the impact for his side, having not missed a game this season.

Martin had some off-field injury battles – but has ripened at the right time.

He’s recorded 136 hit-outs from his eight games, while averaging 5.1 hit-outs to advantage.

Funnily enough, the duo also know each other quite well, having both started their AFL careers at Melbourne.

Get the popcorn ready, this will be big.

3. The road to glory

Despite sitting in the top four – and top two for that matter – for majority of the 2021 season, three consecutive losses to close out the year saw the Bulldogs slip to fifth on the ladder.

People were quick to write them off – but also quick to forget they had been here before.

2016. Seventh on the ladder. Four finals. A drought-breaking flag.

This September, the Dogs did it the long way again.

First up was the elimination final in Launceston. A 49-point victory over Essendon.

Next up was the semi-final in Brisbane. A thrilling one-point win over the Lions.

Then it was the preliminary final in Adelaide – via Perth. A convincing 71-point triumph over Port.

Now we’re here – the Grand Final at Optus Stadium.

9,984 kms over 28 days. What an effort.

4. Whole squad mentality

While 23 Bulldogs will go down in the history books as 2021 Grand Finalists, it’s important to remember the contributions of all of those throughout the year.

The Dogs used 41 of a possible 43 players this season – the most of any club – while also fielding six debutants.

And on Friday afternoon, the 41-player travelling party (minus Josh Bruce in Melbourne, and retiree Lin Jong) was invited to join in the Grand Final eve Captain’s Run.

The group photo taken at the end of the session encapsulates the team perfectly.

Squad goals.