Following the club’s round one clash against North Melbourne, things get even better in round two as Essendon return to Etihad Stadium to take on the reigning premiers, Hawthorn.

In the club’s first home game of the year, there’s no love lost between the two sides that have shared a long and coloured history.

Originating in the 1980’s, the rivalry continues to bubble at the surface, with a spate of incidents over the years only enhancing the animosity felt between the two sides.

After a disappointing performance in the last encounter against the Hawks this game provides the Bombers with the ideal opportunity to rectify a run of recent losses to the Hawks dating back to 2010.

Plenty has changed over the off-season with both lists seeing significant changes, most notably, Hawthorn spearhead Lance Franklin made his move to the Sydney Swans.

The Bombers on the other hand will be hoping star recruit Paul Chapman can maintain his winning form against the Hawks, with the former Cat having not lost a game against Hawthorn since the 2008 Grand Final, with 11 victories along the way.

It provides an added air of excitement and unpredictability to the clash, with both teams having reason to be optimistic about their chances.

A win for Essendon would provide the perfect platform for the club to attack the year, with the Bombers looking to build upon the 14 wins in 2013.

The match also provides the Bombers with the chance to send an early message to the rest of the competition about the club’s intent for success.

With all things considered, it’s shaping up to be yet another classic between the two rivals and yet another early season highlight for Bomber fans in 2014.

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