HEAD TO HEAD:

Played 6
Essendon 4
Gold Coast 2

LAST TIME WE MET:

It seems like an eternity ago that these two teams last came together in round one and a lot has changed since then. The Suns had the better of the Bombers that day, running rampant in an impressive 61-point win led by skipper Gary Ablett. Big man Tom Lynch was impressive with four goals, while Aaron Hall provided plenty of run through the centre.

LAST FIVE TIMES
R1, 2016, Gold Coast 17.19 (121) d Essendon 9.7 (61) at Metricon Stadium
R21, 2015, Gold Coast 14.13 (97) d Essendon 14.11 (95) at Metricon Stadium
R22, 2014, Essendon 16.12 (108) d Gold Coast 13.11 (89) at Etihad Stadium
R12, 2013, Essendon 17.13 (115) d Gold Coast 11.6 (72) at Etihad Stadium
R3, 2012, Essendon 15.15 (105) d Gold Coast 13.10 (88) at Metricon Stadium 

THIS TIME AROUND: 

The Suns have been better in recent weeks winning three of their last six games, while the Bombers will be looking to bounce back after two tough matches against the Crows and Cats.

See the full teams for both sides here.

KEY PLAYERS:

Michael Hartley is likely to spend time with Tom Lynch on Sunday. Lynch dominated the last time these two teams met, kicking four goals. Hartley will have his work cut out for him if he is to take on Lynch, with the Suns’ star currently sitting in second place in the race for the Coleman Medal with 61 goals for the season.

Fans will be looking forward to the return of Orazio Fantasia to the forward line. Fantasia has been somewhat of a revelation for the Bombers this year proving to be a handy little goal sneak and providing plenty of support for Joe Daniher. He has kicked 25 goals so far this year and will surely be looking to add to his tally.

Mathew Stokes will play his first game since a groin issue sidelined him in round 15. The talented half-forward will be welcomed back with open arms to the team, and could be a handy inclusion to help the Bombers get on the scoreboard. He was one of our best the last time the two teams met, kicking three goals. 

THE HIGHLIGHTS:

Jake Long will make his long awaited debut for the Club.

Zach Merrett will become the third youngest Captain of the Club when he runs out on Sunday afternoon.

Matt Dea will celebrate his 50^th game of AFL football. Making his debut in 2010, Dea has been an important inclusion in the Bombers’ backline since joining in January.

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THE STATS: