The next instalment in one of league football’s great traditional rivalries - Richmond v Carlton - is almost upon us.

With the pre-season over, the focus has shifted to a blockbuster opening round clash, featuring two of the biggest clubs in the game, whose rivalry has spawned some of the most memorable matches in VFL/AFL history.

The MCG, on Thursday, March 29, at 7.40pm, is definitely the place to be.

Richmond and Carlton have attracted the spotlight as the league’s season-opener for the past four years, drawing average crowds of 73,000.

Watch the Join the March TVC by clicking on the video player above

This year, the two clubs are inviting their fans to ‘Be there for the beginning’, when the 2012 AFL season kicks off.

The build-up to the game will feature a march to the MCG, with supporters of both teams meeting at the famous stadium before the action begins.

Tiger fans are invited to the ME Bank Centre, Punt Road Oval, from 4pm, for a warm-up kick before the march starts.  Matthew Richardson will lead the Yellow and Black army to the 'G.

Blues fans will start their march from Federation Square and the Tigers supporters will depart Punt Rd at 6.40pm.

Tickets for the match are on sale now through Ticketek by clicking here.

General Admission members can upgrade to a reserved seat by following the same link, and entering the barcode on their membership card. 

In the event that the match becomes a sell-out, general admission entry will be limited.  To avoid disappointment on the night, it is recommended that all GA members consider upgrading to a reserved seat in advance.