The Bombers started with Dyson Heppell, Zach Merrett, Brendon Goddard and Matthew Leuenberger in the centre square.

Travis Colyer is on the wing, while Orazio Fantasia is also playing high up the ground at times.

The Bombers are starting one of their forwards off the back of the square for centre bounces.

John Worsfold has opted to use Cale Hooker, James Stewart and Joe Daniher in attack.

In defence Michael Hartley has the job on Tom Hawkins.

The Bombers won four of the first five clearances in the match, allowing the Dons to kick the first two goals in the opening five minutes of the match.

In his 300^th game James Kelly was busy early picking up eight possessions in the opening ten minutes of the game.

After 12 minutes of game time, the Bombers led the possession count 75-46. On the scoreboard the Dons led 20-2.

Geelong recorded more inside 50s in the first quarter (17-13), but the Bombers were more efficient finishing the term 27 points in front on the back of a six goal to one opening term.

David Zaharakis was one of the Bombers prime movers early in the match - ten minutes into the second term he was up to 18 possessions.

Michael Hurley continued his strong start to the season.  He had seven first half intercepts and was involved in three early scores.

The Dons lead got out to 34 points when Daniher kicked his second of the match.  At that point in the game, the Dons led the tackle count 33-11.  Zach Merrett was leading the way with seven of his own.

Essendon's running game caused the Cats problems.  Midway through the second tern, the Dons had played on from a mark 22 times compared to five from Geelong.

At half time the tackle count was 52-13, Essendon's way.  The Dons held a 32 point lead.