Damian Cupido:
You just get the feeling Damian Cupido is about to explode. After a quiet first half last week against Fremantle, the first year recruit turned it on in the third quarter. He kicked two goals in five minutes and assisted in another two.
Cupido has booted a total of 37 goals this season and has been a valuable forward target for the Bombers. He has weaved his magic in front of goal on a number of occasions and set up forward attacks with his scintillating speed. In the second half of the season, we have seen him combine well with triple Coleman Medallist Matthew Lloyd and his improvement in bringing his teammates into the game. He has also worked hard on the defensive side of this game.
Tomorrow night in the knock-out final against Port, Cupido could find himself against former Essendon premiership player Damien Hardwick. AAMI Stadium is a big ground and hopefully Cupido will be ability to use his speed and agility in the forward line to do some damage on the scoreboard.
Dean Rioli:
Rioli worked hard over the preseason and shed close to seven kilograms to put him in the best physical shape of his career. Unfortunately injury and suspension slowed the first half of Rioli’s season, but since returning in Round 16 he has been gaining momentum with every game. Each performance he seems to better the one before and his contribution to the team has a huge bearing on the final outcome of the match.
After spending time through the mid-field, in recent weeks he has been playing across half-back. Few players can read the play as well as Rioli and he has provided the team with run out of defence. His silky smooth skills ensure pinpoint delivery into the forwardline. Rioli also has the ability to float down and kick the odd goal. He has booted 12 goals this season and hopefully he can add to this tally tomorrow night.
Rioli has the ability to draw his teammates into the game and this asset will be valuable against Port Adelaide. If Rioli can rebound well off the half-back line and get the play moving through the mid-field it could create headaches for Port Adelaide. Rioli has played seven finals over his career and his ability to stay calm in a pressured situation will also be valuable. If he has a big game, it could be the ‘X’ factor Essendon needs to win the match.
