Round 11, 1898
Melbourne vs Fitzroy
Saturday 23 July
Venue: MCG
Attendance: Unknown
| 1st | 2nd | 3rd | Final | |
| Melbourne | 2.2 | 2.2 | 5.2 | 5.3.33 |
| Fitzroy | 0.1 | 2.3 | 3.6 | 7.8.50 |
Fitzroy win by 17 points
Goalkickers: Charlie Young 3, Stewart Geddes 1, George Moodie 1
Milestones:
First game
Bill McClelland
A loss the week before had all but ruined Melbourne's finals chances, but at least in losing again they improved from a performance where they'd only managed to kick one goal for the whole game.
The teams played a similar style, but Fitzroy showed better teammwork and intent for the ball. Nevertheless, on a heavy ground after rain, Melbourne started well with the use of the wind. At half time both sides had their chance with the breeze, and Fitzroy led by a point. Three early goals in the third term gave Melbourne a handy lead, but Fitzroy kicked one goal into the wind to be left with a margin of eight to overcome in the final term.
With best on ground McGinis tiring in the ruck during the last quarter, the Maroons took over. Melbourne was a point in front with seven minutes left before conceding the last three goals.
Best were McGinis, Wood and Sholl.
Media
Herald - 22/07/1898, 29/07/1898
Argus - 25/07/1898
Referee - 27/07/1898
Mercury and Weekly Courier - 29/07/1898