Both Essendon and St Kilda are attempting retribution for their losses last week as they come head-to-head Sunday afternoon at Etihad Stadium. Here’s how the numbers fare in the lead up to the clash. 

Head to head:

Played: 208

Essendon: 139

St Kilda: 65

Draw: 4

Last five encounters:

Rd5, 2014: St Kilda 11.15 (81) d Essendon 9.11 (65)

Rd4, 2013: Essendon 19.14 (128) d St Kilda 13.13 (91)

Rd15, 2012: St Kilda 21.7 (133) d Essendon 8.14 (62)

Rd3, 2011: Essendon 21.10 (136) d St Kilda 12.12 (84)

Rd18, 2010: Essendon 16.12 (108) d St Kilda 11.9 (75)

Key players

• Nick Riewoldt is a big out for the Saints. The last time these two teams met the superstar booted five goals in a dominant display.
• Cale Hooker continues to be an integral part of the Bomber outfit.  The key defender leads the competition for marks this season, averaging just shy of 10 a game.
• Dyson Heppell is running hot recently. In his last three games, the dynamic midfielder has averaged 30.7 disposals.

 Take note

• Essendon and St Kilda are ranked 2^nd and 4^th in the competition for tackles this season.
• Despite winning three of its four first quarters in 2015, St Kilda have failed to win a last quarter.
• St Kilda have the 15^th ranked defence, giving up 106 points a game this season.