The Bombers will look to notch up their first win of the season as they face reigning premier Hawthorn on Sunday at the MCG.
The Hawks got their title defence off to a flyer on Monday thrashing Geelong by 62 points.The Bombers will attempt to build on an impressive three-quarter effort against Sydney last week.
How do the Bombers back up?
Essendon defender Michael Hurley admitted he pulled up sore from last weekend’s match due to Sydney’s tough game style as well as the inclement weather. So the big challenge for Hurley and the rest of his Bomber teammates is to recover and prepare for the Hawks. Fortunately, Essendon will have en eight-day break, while the Hawks have just a six day recovery after playing on Easter Monday. It will be intriguing to discover what impact these different breaks have on both sides late in the game.
Creative Cooney to continue?
In his first game for the club, Adam Cooney booted three goals. We’re all familiar with his class and flair in the midfield and now it seems he is going to spend more time in attack. He’s averaged just shy of a goal a game throughout his 220 game career and his polish in front of goal will be invaluable.
Who will hold the Hawks hierarchy?
Hawthorn has had a stranglehold on opponents throughout the midfield due to their plethora of experienced stars including skipper Luke Hodge, Jordan Lewis and Sam Mitchell. All three look to be as hungry as ever in 2015 after gathering 27, 35 and 21 disposals respectively in their convincing round-one victory against the Cats. It will be up to the experienced Bomber midfielders such as captain Jobe Watson, Brendon Goddard and Dyson Heppell to ensure the Hawks trio remain accountable throughout the match.
Can the big Bomber forwards fire?
Joe Daniher, Jake Carlisle and Patrick Ambrose combined for one goal and six marks in wet conditions in Sydney. The forecast is a little more promising this weekend. The key forwards will need to ensure they remain dangerous throughout the game to prevent the Hawthorn defenders zoning off. Josh Gibson and Brian Lake love to peel off and help their fellow defenders. The Essendon midfield needs to make sure their delivery is spot on.
