With Brisbane currently sitting third on the ladder, the Gabba has become one of the most difficult grounds in the competition to win at for visiting sides.

The Lions have turned the Gabba into a fortress this season, winning six out of the seven games they’ve played there.

Their only loss came in Round 5 against Collingwood in what was possibly their worst performance, going down without a whimper to the tune of 62 points.

‘Fortress Gabba’ is a far cry from last season, where a young and inexperienced Brisbane side won only two of its eleven home games;  one of those wins coming against eventual wooden spooners Carlton.

It’s not all doom and gloom for North Melbourne though, with the Kangaroos having won their last four clashes at Brisbane's home ground, a record which began with a 110-38 mauling in 2015.

If this weekend’s game is anything like North’s most recent game at this venue, it could be one of the games of the season.

Last time, North ran out three point winners.

Although Brisbane was playing for nothing but pride on night, this narrow win helped keep North’s finals hopes alive, but they ultimately fell short of a top eight spot.

Brisbane is a much better side than in previous years, and if North wants to maintain its GABBA winning streak, it will have to be at its best.

However, this North side has proven that it can more than match it with the competition's elite.

Everything points to a pulsating game on Saturday night.