Bomber fans would normally welcome four clashes against bottom eight-sides, but the reality is that none of Essendon's remaining games are easy. Friday night's meeting with the suddenly in-contention Richmond shapes as an old-fashioned blockbuster. Resurgent West Coast will pose problems in round 21, while old foes Carlton are also showing signs of form and are unlikely to be easybeats in their season-closer. 

The run home

Rd 20: Richmond at the MCG

Rd 21: West Coast at Etihad Stadium

Rd 22: Gold Coast at Etihad Stadium

Rd 23: Carlton at the MCG
 

"We've got four matches to go and we have to play well but I believe we can get back into some good form really quickly. I haven't lost too much tonight because there is no shame in losing to Sydney up here. We will improve, no doubts from here." Mark Thompson - August 1 post match against Sydney.