Melbourne's Super Saturday: AFL Double-Header and Cross-Town Netball Thriller

A Blockbuster Saturday in the Sporting Capital

Melbourne prepares for an action-packed day of professional sport this Saturday, 28 March 2026. With the AFL season in full swing and the netball courts heating up, fans have a diverse menu of high-stakes matches to choose from across the city’s premier venues. Whether you are heading to the Docklands or the Olympic Park precinct, today promises some of the most anticipated match-ups of the early season.

AFL: Marvel Stadium Takeover

Marvel Stadium becomes the epicenter of Australian Rules Football today with a unique double-header. Footy fans will converge on the Docklands for two critical Round 3 encounters.

• St Kilda vs. Brisbane Lions: The action kicks off in the afternoon as the Saints host the Lions. St Kilda will look to utilize their home-ground advantage to stifle Brisbane's potent attacking line. The first bounce is scheduled for 1:15 pm.
• Essendon vs. North Melbourne: As the sun sets, the stadium lights will shine on a traditional Victorian rivalry. The Bombers and the Kangaroos face off in a primetime clash that always draws a passionate crowd. This night match is set to begin at 7:35 pm.

Suncorp Super Netball: The Battle of Melbourne

Over at John Cain Arena, netball takes center stage with a fierce cross-town rivalry. The Melbourne Mavericks face the Melbourne Vixens in what has quickly become one of the most talked-about fixtures in the Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) calendar. With local bragging rights on the line and both teams fighting for an early-season foothold in the top four, expect a physical and high-tempo contest. The match begins at 5:00 pm.

World-Class Athletics at Lakeside Stadium

For those who prefer the track and field, the Maurie Plant Meet returns to Lakeside Stadium this evening. As Oceania's only World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meet, this event brings global superstars and homegrown heroes to Albert Park. Fans can expect world-class performances across sprints, middle-distance, and field events. Gates open at 4:00 pm, with the main elite program scheduled for the evening.

Match Day Tips for Fans

With multiple major events occurring simultaneously, public transport is highly recommended. Special event shuttles and increased train frequencies will be running to Southern Cross Station for the AFL and the Olympic Park precinct for netball and athletics. Be sure to arrive early to soak up the atmosphere of what is shaping up to be one of the biggest sporting Saturdays of the year.