The Bombers will be looking to put on a strong performance against the in form GWS Giants this Sunday afternoon.
GWS will be full of confidence after a historic win against the Sydney Swans in round 12.
However, the news isn’t all good for the Giants with star forward Steve Johnson set to miss Sunday’s game.
AFL.com.au have reported that Johnson is likely to miss 1-2 weeks with a niggling foot injury.
This may be an important exclusion for the Bombers, with the ex-Cat proving to be deadly in the forward line - having kicked 24 goals from just 12 games.
The Bombers are set to be buoyed by a few returns and will have plenty of options after a number of players demonstrated strong signs for Essendon VFL over the weekend.
Here are a few of the players we expect to be putting their hands up for selection.
Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti:
Walla’s run was definitely missed last week against the Hawks. The exciting defender was given a well deserved rest after a blistering start to the season which has seen him become a regular starter in the team. Averaging 16 disposals at an impressive 81% efficiency, Walla’s clean use of the ball and ability to break the lines will surely be crucial against the hard-running Giants.
Jason Ashby:
For the second week in a row, Jason Ashby will surely be pushing for selection. Ashby was rated by AFL.com.au as one of the most impressive over the weekend. The defender’s ability to repeatedly set-up off the half-back line was well noted, as well as his classy 25-disposals. We’re yet to see Ashby play for the seniors in 2016, but a string of consistent performances could see him come in this weekend.
Michael Hartley:
If able to get through a full-week’s training, key defender Michael Hartley is expected to make a return on Sunday. Hartley has missed the last few weeks with a hamstring injury. His absence has been notable and he will be a welcome inclusion to the backline. The 23-year-old had a great start to his Essendon career earning league wide praise for his performances on some of the most talented opposition forwards. Strong in the contest, Hartley’s return will take the pressure off Patrick Ambrose and James Gwilt in the backline.
Jayden Laverde:
Playing his first game back after a shoulder injury, Laverde looked very impressive and covered the ground well. Led well to the ball and was always a presence, providing a good option for the midfielders finishing with 3.2 for the day. Given that he has spent a fair amount of time on the sideline, he may need a few more weeks in the VFL.
Who else is in the mix:
James Polkinghorne:
30 disposals (17 kicks, 13 handballs), six marks, three tackles, eight inside 50’s, three rebound 50’s
Conor McKenna:
17 disposals (10 kicks, seven handballs), one goal, two marks, four tackles, three inside 50’s, two inside 50’s.
