Essendon will need to be wary of North Melbourne’s strong-bodied midfielders according to former champion Matthew Lloyd.

The Bombers meet the Kangaroos tonight in the second clash between the two sides this season.

“The form of some of their midfielders, guys like Ziebell and Cunnington are really dangerous through that midfield,” Lloyd said.

“That’s where guys like Dyson Heppell, Nick O’Brien – might get another big challenge.”

North Melbourne is just outside the top eight, while Essendon is coming off a narrow win against Melbourne.

The Kangaroos strong midfield group is complemented by ruckman Todd Goldstein.

In the last three matches Goldstein has won 187 hit outs and as a result North Melbourne’s centre clearance numbers are among the AFL’s best. 

“It’s about competing with them and getting first hands to the ball,” Lloyd said. 

“Obviously Goldstein is the main weapon for them.  I think he’s the All-Australian ruckman at the moment. 

“I think Shaun McKernan will match him around the ground.  It at those stoppages that he’d got to try to nullify Goldstein’s influence.” 

Essendon will field another young line-up with first year player Kyle Langford replacing Alex Browne. 

Lloyd said he expects to see a repeat of the energy and enthusiasm the Bombers displayed last week.

“Effort shouldn’t change, no matter the result or the opposition, you’ve got to bring effort,” Lloyd said.

“They’ve got a big advantage with their experience and a pretty healthy injury list so it all comes down to effort.”