Essendon is prepared for a tough task bringing down Box Hill in tomorrow’s VFL clash at Highgate Reserve.

Assistant coach Paul Corrigan said it was clear why the Hawks were sitting on top of the AFL ladder.

“We all know they play a bit like Hawthorn so they like to keep possession of the ball,” Corrigan said.

“We’ve got to make sure we’re really accountable and can take the ball off them as much as possible.

“When we do get the ball we need to use it really well and be able score off it.”

Corrigan said his side was prepared for the challenge at hand.

“They’re sitting up in the top four at the moment so they’ve been reasonably strong all year.”

“I think they’ve lost two games for the year so far. So we really look forward to the challenge for our boys coming off what was a bit of a disappointing draw last week against Frankston.”

Tayte Pears is continuing his comeback from injury after two strong performances over the last two weeks.

Corrigan said he had become an important part of the developing young side.

“His form has been good. He’s slowly progressing each week now and he’s getting his km’s up in the games and getting through unscathed so that’s the main thing.”

“Hopefully he can continue to play some good games and hopefully push himself up for selection later in the year.”

The match kicks off from 1pm at Highgate Reserve, Craigeburn.