THE DEES will return to their Sunday 3:15pm time slot in 2027, made famous in 2026, hosting the Bombers in Round 1 at the MCG.   

Melbourne’s opening game of the 2027 AFL season was announced on Tuesday afternoon, with the side to meet Essendon at the home of football on March 21.   

Out of the eight games that the Dees played at this time slot in 2026, they won six matches, making it a fan favourite schedule.  

The later start to the 2027 season – March 17 compared to March 5 in 2026 – is due to the Test match between Australia and England on March 11-15, with the Grand Final also pushed back to Saturday 2 October.

Tickets for 2027 AFL season will go on sale in December.  

Sunday 21 March  
Melbourne vs Essendon 
3:15pm AEDT 
MCG | Wurundjeri