Big Freeze 11 | Dees make three changes

Melbourne has made three changes to its line-up ahead of Big Freeze 11

INS – van Rooyen, Tholstrup, Howes

OUTS – Johnson (susp.), Laurie, Sharp (omitted)

MELBOURNE will head into its King’s Birthday clash against Collingwood with three changes to its line-up.

The Dees have added Jacob van Rooyen, Koltyn Tholstrup and Blake Howes to their final 23 as they prepare to do battle in front of a packed MCG this Monday.

Van Rooyen’s call-up comes after the tall Demon produced impactful forward footy at VFL level these past three weeks including last Saturday’s performance of two goals, 17 disposals and eight marks.

Slick defender Blake Howes re-joins the team following a number of strong displays for the Casey Demons (averaging 23 disposals and nine marks) and will add run and execution out of Melbourne’s back half.

Similarly, explosive youngster Koltyn Tholstrup also enters the side as a result of consistent work in the VFL the past three weeks. He’ll bring an important spark of energy across the midfield and forward line as the Dees look to defeat the ladder leaders.

Aidan Johnson will miss the game as he sits out a two-week suspension, while Bailey Laurie and Harry Sharp have been omitted.

Sharp joins Matthew Jefferson and Jai Culley on the Monday emergency list.

Tomorrow’s match is set to be one of the biggest on the football calendar as the AFL community rallies around Neale Daniher AO for Big Freeze 11.

The blockbuster game is officially sold out, with a record-breaking crowd of more than 85,000 set to fill the stands, in support of Daniher and his fight against Motor Neurone Disease.

Those fortunate enough to secure a spot are encouraged to be in their seats by 2pm; Big Freeze 11 action will kick off shortly after, beginning with the fan-favourite slide followed by a special pre-match moment to honour Daniher.

Dees fans can start their day at Federation Square, where Melbourne players, President Brad Green and the Daniher family will join the crowd from 10am, before starting the Zurich Walk to the ‘G.

Those wishing to donate to FightMND can do so by grabbing a Digital Beanie at bigfreeze.com.au.

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