HEAD TO HEAD:

Played: 211

Won: 128

Lost: 81

Draws: 2

LAST FIVE TIMES:

R15, 2015, Essendon 10.9 (69) d Melbourne 7.18 (60) at the MCG

R13, 2014, Melbourne 12.6 (78) d Essendon 10.17 (77) at the MCG

R2, 2013, Essendon 28.16 (184) d Melbourne 5.6 (36) at the MCG

R10, 2012, Melbourne 8.10 (58) d Essendon 6.16 (52) at the MCG

R11, 2011, Melbourne 15.11 (101) d Essendon 10.8 (68) at the MCG

LAST TIME WE MET:

It was Joe Daniher who was the big difference the last time these two teams met. The youngster had a day out kicking five goals to help the Dons seal a much needed win.

KEY PLAYERS:

Matthew Leuenberger will once again be important, shouldering the entire responsibility as the primary ruck. He had a great tap against the Gold Coast Suns last week and will hopefully be able to continue  to give the first use of the ball to the Essendon midfield.

Although it may be his first game, Michael Hartley will also be an important factor in tomorrow’s game. He proved that he is capable both in the NAB Challenge and for Essendon VFL, but his ability to take strong marks and get to the contest will be crucial in nullifying some of Melbourne’s key forwards.

Mathew Stokes and Nick Kommer will also have to play an important role in the forward line, providing support to Joe Daniher. In his first game in almost three years, Kommer will hopefully be able to use his trademark aggression to put the pressure on the opposition and trap the ball in the Essendon forward half. Stokes will also need to fire from the get go and replicate his strong performance next week.