In the lead up to the GIANTS' clash with Collingwood at the MCG, we’ve examined some of the key statistical components that could influence the match.

Greene Machine – It was a big day out for Toby Greene in Round 22, 2014 when the GIANTS and Magpies faced off last. Greene had a career-high 42 touches, seven marks, five tackles and a goal. This season Greene is averaging 23 touches in a different role which has seen him push forward and contribute to the scoreboard.

Winning Difference – The Magpies and GIANTS are sitting fourth and fifth on the ladder with seven wins and three losses each. Collingwood is yet to beat a side ranked in top 8 while the GIANTS managed to knock off both reigning premiers Hawthorn and Adelaide at Spotless Stadium earlier this season. Collingwood has recorded wins against the bottom seven sides on the table.

Hit-out Advantage – Collingwood are ranked 16th for total hit-outs while the GIANTS are ranked seventh. Shane Mumford is enjoying another dominant season, averaging 29 touches (third most in the competition). Mumford is also ranked sixth for tackles in the league, proving his value around stoppages. The Magpies’ best ruckman this year has been Brodie Grundy who averages 24 hit-outs per match. There is some doubt whether or not Grundy will play after injuring his neck at training on Friday.

Noise Factor – A big crowd is expected at the MCG which could break the GIANTS’ attendance record of 44,770 set in Round 5, 2014 against Adelaide at the Adelaide Oval. The GIANTS have only recorded one victory from seven trips to the MCG but it was the most recent, thrashing Melbourne by 64 points in Round 21 last year.

Marked Men – GIANTS defenders will have their hands full on Sunday with Collingwood ranked equal-first for marks inside 50 this season with 15.1 a game courtesy of Travis Cloke and Jamie Elliott, who are ranked 9th and 10th respectively in the AFL. Marking isn’t everything though, because the GIANTS' impressive key forward duo, Jeremy Cameron and Cam McCarthy, have combined for 56 goals while Pies counterparts Travis Cloke and Jesse White have tallied 41 majors.

Last Time They Met – In Round 22, 2014 it was Collingwood who won bragging rights over the GIANTS, recording a narrow 8-point win at Spotless Stadium. The final score was 11.9 (75) - 9.13 (67) and Scott Pendlebury was awarded the three Brownlow votes.