It was a tight finish last time these two sides met.

The Bombers scraped home by two points and with both teams desperate for a win, Sunday’s clash at Etihad Stadium could be another nail biter.

These are the burning questions head of the match. 

-       Who replaces Jake Carlisle in the forward line?

After a disrupted pre-season, Carlisle was beginning to find form for the Bombers.  He kicked three goals and took eight marks against Hawthorn before injuring his ankle in the final seconds.

His marking is hard to replace but the Bombers have some options.  Michael Hurley has spent significant time in the forward line throughout his career and shapes as the obvious replacement.

Ariel Steinberg and James Gwilt are other options for the Dons.  Both are more commonly seen in defence, but they’re good contested marks and would at least help bring the ball to ground.

The Bombers could also go for a smaller forward line and surround Joe Dnaiher with fleet footed players like Jason Winderlich, Zach Merrett and David Zaharakis.

-       How do the Bombers stop Nick Riewoldt?

He may be in the twilight of his career, but the St Kilda Captain is still a force in the AFL.  He’s kicked 11 goals in his last four games for the Saints.

Riewoldt missed the clash against the Bombers earlier this season, but he booted five goals when the teams met last year.

Cale Hooker has been one of Essendon’s most consistent performers and could be given the first crack.

If Michael Hurley is not sent forward, he would be another contender.

-       Can the Bombers arrest their form slump?

There were signs against the Hawks that the Bombers have definitely turned a corner.  Scores were level at half-time and had the Bombers kicked straight, they could have been well in front.

The run and aggressive ball movement that Essendon has been working on was evident throughout many passages of play.

The challenge this week will be to sustain it for four quarters.

-       What impact does Jobe Watson’s 200^th game have?

Many seasoned commentators say once the ball is bounced, milestones don’t count for much.  They may be right, but there is no doubting Jobe Watson means so much to his teammates.

His leadership through a time of adversity has been outstanding.  Matthew Lloyd said he’s been a remarkable Captain.

The Essendon players would love nothing more than to recognise Watson’s contribution with a win.