It's the biggest Queen's Birthday Monday clash in over 10 years with both teams knocking on the door of the eight.

Major challengers North Melbourne take on reigning premier Hawthorn at Etihad Stadium in what shapes as a preview to the 2016 finals.

Two of the 2016 flag contenders face off at Etihad Stadium with the Bulldogs aiming to topple the Cats for the first time in seven years. Brian Taylor leads the call.