HEAD TO HEAD:

Played: 5

Essendon: 4

GWS: 1

LAST FIVE TIMES:

R19, 2015, GWS 14.9 (93) d Essendon 8.13 (61) at Spotless Stadium
R12, 2014, Essendon 11.15 (81) d GWS 9.12 (66) at Spotless Stadium
R17, 2013, Essendon 18.8 (116) d GWS 11.11 (77) at Spotless Stadium
R6, 2013, Essendon 17.18 (120) d GWS 12.9 (81) at Etihad Stadium
R9, 2012, Essendon 18.11 (119) d GWS 7.11 (53) at Spotless Stadium 

LAST TIME WE MET:

GWS recorded their first ever regular season win over the Bombers in a disappointing outing late in the season. The Giants ran out 32-point winners on the night, kicking away in the final term.

Brendon Goddard was one of our most important players on the night, collecting 32-disposals, while Joe Daniher was the target in front of goals kicking two and taking six marks.

KEY PLAYERS:

Preparing to run out in game number 50, Zach Merrett will be one of our most important players on the night. His ability to get in and under the pack to win the ball and feed it out will be crucial in helping the boys win the clearance. Merrett’s fast quick disposal could also be the difference in catching the Giants’ defenders out of position. 

It will be a big return for Michael Hartley as he prepares to re-join the Essendon backline. Hartley has proven that he has the ability of nullifying quality forwards and could get the job on either the Jeremy Cameron or Jonathan Patton. While they have not been firing in the last few weeks, the two tall forwards will require plenty of attention from Essendon defenders.

The Small Forwards are going to have to make the most of their opportunities against the Giants defence. Will Hams, Mathew Stokes and Orazio Fantasia will be crucial in helping the Bombers get on the scoreboard.