If the Swans’ recent record at Etihad Stadium is anything to go by, North will have to be at the top of its game to take the four points on Sunday.

For non-Victorian teams, the trip to Melbourne and Etihad can be a daunting one, but for the Sydney Swans, it’s proven to be a happy stomping ground over the years.

Sydney has won 14 of its past 16 matches at the venue, which dates back to Round 11, 2012, and it currently has an all-time win rate of 58 per cent.

In comparison to its record at the SCG, it's not too dissimilar, with the Swans winning 59 per cent of their matches at their home ground.

Of grounds that it has played at on more than three occasions, Sydney averages its highest amount of points at Etihad Stadium, averaging 95 points per game.

Defensively the Swans are middle of the road, conceding an average of 84 points.

The Swans have managed wins in two of their three matches under the roof this season, with their one loss coming against reigning premiers Richmond in Round 15, when they went down by 26 points.

Prior to that, their most recent loss came at the hands of the Bulldogs when they overcame a 22-point three quarter-time deficit to hit the lead in the final term, but ultimately fell short.

In those two wins this season, North averages a winning margin of 39 points, highlighted by a 71-point victory over the Saints before the bye thanks to four goals from star forward Lance ‘Buddy’ Franklin.

A performance like that should come as no surprise, given the 31-year-old’s impressive record at Etihad Stadium.

Franklin averages 3.4 goals per game at the ground, having kicked 142 majors from his 41 appearances at ground.

When it comes to meetings with North at the Docklands precinct, encounters have been few and far between, with the sides playing under the roof on just six occasions.

The first one came in Round 6 in 2008 when North walked away with a 16-point win, but since then the Swans have won four of the next five, while a draw has also occurred.

While the Roos took the points in enemy territory in Round 7, Sunday’s clash will be just as big a challenge.