VFL coach Hayden Skipworth admits Saturday afternoon’s clash against Box Hill is a vital game in the side’s 2015 campaign.

With both Essendon and Box Hill at an identical win-loss record, 2-2 apiece, the winner will take a step ahead, while the loser is set to fall behind the pack.

“It’s a crunch game,” Skipworth said.

“They’re well drilled. They’re a good side and a grand finalist from last year, so they will be a tough team to beat.”

Box Hill has set the standard in the past few seasons – premiers in 2013 and grand finalists last year.

Skipworth said their game style continues to be the benchmark in the VFL.

“They play a very good brand of footy.

“They’re a great kicking team, like Hawthorn, so stopping their uncontested marks will be important.”

The result is set to be decided throughout the middle, with the battle of the midfields set to be a hot one.

“It’s going to be like most weeks – won in the midfield, and lost in the midfield,” Skipworth said.

“Hopefully we can take out a bit from last week and win the clearances like we did and get the ball in our forward half and lock it in there.

“If we can get the ball forward enough and give our forwards enough opportunity to kick goals, I think it will go a long way to winning the game.”

After missing the last two matches with stoppage duties for the AFL side, Skipworth said he still worked closely with the VFL side during his absence.

“I’ve worked with the younger midfielders and their development in the AFL side.

“And it’s definitely a focus when I come back to the VFL – to help them develop – as well as coach the team.”

Skipworth expects a large attendance at Windy Hill to see a great contest between two quality outfits. 

“It will be nice to see a lot of supporters at Windy Hill, obviously the AFL team play Friday night, so no excuses to get down and support the boys.”