In the lead up to the GIANTS’ big clash with Carlton, we’ve examined some of the key components that could influence the match.

To Be Shaw – Defender Heath Shaw is in All Australian form and it’s not hard to see why. Shaw is leading the competition in a number of statistical categories including; kicks, bounces and rebound-50s. In fact, Shaw has had 40 more rebound-50s than the second-placed player in Bachar Houli. Shaw was best on ground for the GIANTS last week against Sydney and will be looking to finish off the season strongly.

Tackle Shy - Carlton are ranked last in the league for tackles, averaging just 57 per game. The GIANTS are currently sitting seventh in the AFL for tackles, averaging 67 - an additional 10 tackles per match compared to their opponent this week. The best ranked tackler for the Blues is Ed Curnow (41st in the league) averaging 4.6 tackles per match. The GIANTS best tackler is Adam Treloar (27th in the league) who averages 5.4 tackles per match.

Centre Clearances  – One area the GIANTS have struggled this season is clearing the ball from the centre square. The GIANTS are ranked last in the AFL for centre clearances, averaging only 10 per match. Carlton, however, have excelled in this area in 2015 - ranked second in the AFL with 13.4 centre clearances per match. Carlton young gun Patrick Cripps is the man to stop in the middle, averaging over three centre clearances a match.

Point To Prove – After a disappointing 89-point loss to cross-town rivals Sydney last week, expect to see a fired-up GIANTS outfit at Spotless Stadium. The GIANTS finals chances might be over, but coach Leon Cameron has promised a much-improved performance. Carlton are coming off a win against Melbourne and will look to continue their good form.

Injury Hit - In a blow for Carlton, skipper Marc Murphy will miss the remainder of the season after dislocating his shoulder. Murphy is the only Blue inside the top 50 of the AFL's Official Player Ratings at No 34. Meanwhile the GIANTS have three players in the top 50 - co-captain Callan Ward (19), Ryan Griffen (29) and Adam Treloar (32). Murphy has averaged 27 disposals per match this season.

Last Time We Met - It was Round 7, 2015 when the GIANTS and Blues last crossed paths and it was the GIANTS who ran out 78-point winners at Etihad Stadium. It was a comprehensive victory - the GIANTS had 40 scoring shots to 12; dominated the disposals 418-345; took 116 marks to 89 and took the ball inside 50 an amazing 48 more times (80-32).

The GIANTS take on Carlton on Saturday at 1.45pm at Spotless Stadium. Tickets available here.