Heath Hocking has issued a warning to his teammates ahead of Essendon’s first home game against Melbourne at the MCG.
Despite the Demon’s heavy loss to Port Adelaide on the weekend, the 25-year-old urged his peers not to take Melbourne lightly when they face off on Saturday night.
“Over the past few years, Melbourne have had the wood over us, so it’s definitely not a game we’re going to take lightly,” Hocking said.
“There is no doubt that Saturday is going to be challenging.
“Last year we were playing some really good footy up until we faced Melbourne and that game was probably our tipping point in the season, so we’re well aware that this week is an important game for us.”
Hocking proved his dominance in Round 1 by shutting down one of the competition’s key midfielders Patrick Dangerfield in the Bombers’ 35-point win against Adelaide.
“I’ve been given the role to run with the dangerous players and during that game, Hirdy just told me to jump on him and curb his influence on the field so I just took that on board and tried to stop him being dangerous,” Hocking told Radio Sport National.
One of the competition’s hardest players, Hocking revealed that he was still learning how to adapt to his role as a defensive midfielder and tagger.
“It’s tough because you’ve played footy being a ball winner and now to go in to a more defensive role is sometimes a bit mentally challenging,” he said.
“I’m still coming to terms with my role, but it is all for the team which is important and I’m always happy to help where I can on the field.”
Hocking said the Bombers would go in to Saturday knowing the side could mix it with the top teams in the competition.
“Last year we had a good start to the season and we really found out we could actually match it with the top teams.”
“It’s pleasing now that we have a fresh, healthy list and a bit of depth too, so we can take a lot from that.”
Hocking acknowledged and thanked the red and black fans for their support to the playing group over the pre-season.
“The support we have been getting from fans and members have been fantastic,” Hocking said.
“We hope that they will stick with us because it really is an exciting time for the club by trying to play some really good football.”
Essendon face Melbourne on Saturday night at the MCG. Click here to purchase your tickets now.
