An important game for both Essendon and Fremantle, here are how the numbers stack between the two teams.

Head to Head: 

Played:29

Essendon:18

Fremantle:11

Draw:0

Last Five:

R6, 2015, Fremantle 12.8 (80) d Essendon 7.10 (52) at Domain Stadium
R4, 2014, Fremantle 18.5 (113) d Essendon 9.6 (60) at Domain Stadium
R3, 2013, Essendon 10.12 (72) d Fremantle 9.14 (68) at Domain Stadium
R13, 2012, Essendon 17.11 (113) d Fremantle 14.5 (89) at Domain Stadium
R12, 2011, Fremantle 15.8 (98) d Essendon 9.10 (64) at Domain Stadium 

Last Time We Met:

Brendon Goddard was a standout performer the last time these two teams met, gathering a game high 35-possessions, while Zach Merrett also proved to be impressive with 23 disposals and a goal.

Key Players:

Both teams rank lowest in the AFL for scoring, so it will be an important day for Mitch Brown and Joe Daniher as key position forwards. The two will be looking to continue scoring goals and give the Bombers the advantage early on.

Patrick Ambrose will be crucial in the backline in the absence of Michael Hartley. The young Bomber is still relatively inexperience as a backman, however, he has shown promising signs over the last few weeks and played a crucial role on Jack Riewoldt last week. It is possible that he will line-up against Matthew Pavlich.

This game will prove to be a bittersweet affair for Ryan Crowley as he returns home for the first time. A fan favourite during his time at the Dockers, it will be interesting to see the reception he gets from the crowd. Aside from that, he will also play an important role in Essendon’s midfield and will have to step up as one of the more senior players given the absence of James Kelly.