Essendon and Geelong will meet at the MCG for just the second time since 2005 when they take to the field for the inaugural ‘Country Game’ this Saturday afternoon.
The Cats are coming off a big win over the Lions, while the Bombers will be looking to improve on last week’s performance against the Power.
Jayden Laverde, Craig Bird and Conor McKenna have all been added to the Essendon line-up while Nick Kommer, Ryan Crowley and Jackson Merrett will miss out.
For the Cats, the experienced Tom Lonergan rejoins the side alongside Cory Gregson and Jordan Murdoch. The trio replace Lincoln McCarthy, Corey Enright and Jake Kolodjashnij.
Will the Essendon forward line fire?
Coach John Worsfold highlighted the lack of forward pressure against Port Adelaide in round 3 and believed that it would need to be a key area of improvement against the Cats. The additions of powerful youngster Jayden Laverde and the crafty Irishman, Conor McKenna, could be important in this area. Both have showed strong signs for Essendon VFL over the pre-season and were important in the round one clash last week. McKenna has been particularly handy in the forward line kicking three goals last week.
Who will stop the Cats’ midfielders?
It’s no secret that the Cats have some serious power in their midfield. Joel Selwood and Patrick Dangerfield alone have combined for 171 disposals, 41 clearances and 22 centre clearances. It is a big ask to attempt to stop these two, so the Bombers may look instead ensure that – when they do have ball in hand, they have limited options. Even still, Craig Bird will have to be on top of his game around the middle and play a run-with role on at least one of these stars.
Is defence the key to a good offence?
Essendon’s defenders have had a tough ask of them so far this season and they are in for another big match against Geelong. The Cats rate third in the AFL for inside 50s and fourth for marks inside 50. James Gwilt and Michael Hartley are going to be important as tall defenders when they match-up on the Geelong power forwards. They will have strong support from the reliable Mark Baguley, but it will be important for Matt Dea and Orazio Fantasia to also be ready to rebound 50 and provide plenty of options across the half-back line. It may also be necessary for Mitch Brown to return to the backline and provide some more tall support.
Will Walla run free?
We love to see him run and, once he gets going, he’s near impossible to stop. Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (or Walla for short) has been a great asset across the backline so far this season, with his pressure, run and great disposals a true highlight. He is named in the forward pocket this week which could prove to be an important move. Wherever he is played, Geelong should be wary of what the crowd favourite is capable of. We all know that Patty Dangerfield will be watching him closely!
