Why big-moments Lion could break open grand final

Davidson looms as one of the keys to breaking open a formidable North Melbourne defence led by triple-premiership tall Libby Birch.

After roaring back into form with two majors, including a miracle goal from the boundary in the preliminary- final win over Carlton, the 26-year-old is primed to make her mark in Saturday's decider at Ikon Park.

"It's awesome when any of our key talls are down there taking marks or competing really well," midfielder-cum-forward Cathy Svarc told AAP.

"The last few weeks, she's really stepped up. And she does love the big moments too. 

"That's a real strength of hers and no matter what way she can impact on the game, I'm sure she'll be wanting to play her part and take her moments as well. 

"So I'm really excited to see what she can bring."

Davidson was superb in the 2023 grand final but had her colours lowered in last year's decider and will clearly be keen to impose herself on the game.

Fiery and tough as nails, Davidson has, like some of her Lions teammates, experienced an up-and-down season, kicking 14.18 and having issues with the goalkicking 'yips' at times.

But her presence, alongside fellow tall Taylor Smith, opens the game up for the likes of Ruby Svarc, Ellie Hampson, Courtney Hodder and winger Sophie Conway to hit the scoreboard.

"She's a star. I love her," Conway told AAP.

"She tends to be not very liked amongst the competition, which is interesting. 

"She's got the biggest heart. She's actually a big softie, but she's got so much care for her teammates and she flies the flag for us really well, and to see her reap some rewards is obviously really nice. 

"Probably, for her standard, she's been up and down, but for her to continue to step up in moments when we need her, she's a player that you bloody want on your side. 

"I'm pumped for her. I'm really excited. She deserves everything that comes her way.

"I love running out with her every week. When she kicks goals, it's extra special and when she kicks goals from the boundary, it's even more special. 

"She deserves everything that comes her way. She works hard, and she looks after everyone. I love her."