Michael Hartley has the job on Jack Riewoldt, while Michael Hurley is on Todd Elton. 

In attack, Richmond’s Alex Rance is going with Cale Hooker and David Astbury has been sent to Joe Daniher.

The Dons were fast out of the block, kicking three goals in the first six minutes of the match. In that period the Bombers had five inside 50s and 84 per cent of the game was spent in their forward half.

Richmond cashed in on some Essendon turnovers in the middle stages of the quarter. The Tigers generated five scores from that source and kicked three goals to take the lead.

The Bombers kicked six straight goals in the opening term to hold an eight-point lead at the first change.

Essendon led the clearances (14-7) and the contested possession (37-27) in that quarter.

Brendon Goddard (13 possessions and two goals) continued his excellent form.  He was also involved in six of the Dons first seven scores.

Richmond took control of the territorial game in the second quarter, but Essendon's defence was resolute.  From the Tigers first 26 inside 50s, they kicked five goals.  At the same time the Bombers had 18 entries for seven goals.