Here is what some of the fans had to say:
Matt from Vic says: I think we can be competitive aginst Geelong, but there are many factors to take into account.. The big queries for them are - can our midfield match theirs and will the forward line function well enough to kick enough goals to beat Geelong? Geelong will start favourites, and rightfully so but based on pre-season form of both teams, I reckon we're in with a chance.
Mikey from Croydon says: Of course we can beat the Cats. Especially if we carry the momentum from the Richmond game. The Cats are ripe for the picking. Here pussy pussy pussy.
Jesse Mueller from Helensvale Qld says: We are the young side like geelong was a few years ago, I reckon if we stay injury free you never know. Go you bombers and David hille best of luck for 2010
Kieran from Kew says: We will destroy them! I guaran-damn-tee it
Mathew Ollaik from Sunshine says: I fancy Essendon a very good chance against the premiers of 2009. The forward-line looked extremely composed against Richmond last week and we now have multiple goal kickers such as Gumbleton, Neagle, Ryder, Hille, Williams, Monfries, Zaharakis and Davey. Geelong is a great side, but I believe our baby bombers will be able to match them.
Andy Toma from Mel, Vic says: I definetely would say we have a great chance coming in to it, with great players, good forward line, an if our midfield can match the best in the game then we will win. But guys you got to have the belief to do so, just think of them as any other team.
Joseph Attard from Taylors Hill says: I really hope we can, we have what it takes, we saw what we can do against Richmond, albeit it was a practise match, but still, the signs are there. We need an outstanding performance from Hille and Pears in my opinion to get over the line. GO THE BOMBERS! Bring on 2010!!!
Justin Millard from Quambatook says: No, but I believe they'll come within a few goals. Still, it'll be interesting how the team goes once you get two quality position players back in the side, namely Hurley and Lovett-Murray. If the Bombers carry on their good run with injuries from the Pre- Season they'll be a force.
Brendan Farrugia from Albany Creek, Queensland, Australia says: As long as we make some improvement on the 10 goal shallacking we recieved at the hands of the Catters last year, I'm happy.
Michael from taylors lakes says: Dont underestimate the talent that we now have. We are going to follow the cats in the way they have dominated the comp and it all starts in round 1.
Charle Spicar from Wyndham Vale says: It's a big ask expecting to defeat the reigning premier when our new forward structure has very limited experience together. Will Gumby's body stand up? Will Mark Williams find the sticks? Where will Hurley play? Will Hille's knee stand up? What about Laycock? Too many questions that need to be answered. A big win against Richmond doesn't equal a win against Geelong who have beaten us by a significant margin on the last three occassions.
Greg Sloan from Somerville VIC says: We would have to be at our very best to challenge the cats. But, anything can happen as we saw in our victory against the saints, and in our miracle Anzac Day victory last year. I think if we have an injury free list that we can beat anyone anywhere on our day. Go Dons.
Noel from SA says: It is hard to see the Bombers beating a classy oufit with an untried forward line and a defense that has yet to deliver the goods.I hope I'm wrong.
Stefan from Strathmore says: Full list, no excuses!
Joel from Moonee Ponds says: Western Bulldogs, Geelong, St Kilda & Collingwood....tried and true as top 4 teams in past 2-3 years. Very game punter to tip against Geelong pride in Round 1, especially as we continue to find the right balance but I do expect the Cats to falter at some stages through the year. It must be tiring the body and mind to stay at the top for so long. Love to be wrong about Round1 though!