SUMMARY
A win would keep Essendon in touch with the top two on the AFL ladder, and going by current form, it's a result the club will expect. The Western Bulldogs' battles have been well documented this season, with the club winning just four games. The round 15 win over Greater Western Sydney will give the players a little confidence ahead of this game, but they face an enormous task trying to stop the Bombers.

WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Sunday 14 June, 3.20pm.

LAST FIVE TIMES
R14, 2012, Essendon 21.14 (140) d Western Bulldogs 8.8 (56) at Etihad Stadium
R21, 2011, Essendon 23.12 (150) d Western Bulldogs 15.11 (101) at Etihad Stadium
R1, 2011, Essendon 16.17 (113) d Western Bulldogs 8.10 (58) at Etihad Stadium
R22, 2010, Western Bulldogs 17.5 (117) d Essendon 11.12 (78) at Etihad Stadium
R10, 2010, Essendon 15.9 (99) d Western Bulldogs 14.6 (90) at Etihad Stadium

THE SIX POINTS
1. Essendon took the points in round 14 last season, beating the Western Bulldogs by 84 points. Ranked at 254 in the Official AFL Player Ratings, Michael Hurley kicked five goals in that win.

2. No team has had more inside 50s in 2013 than Essendon, with 806. The Bulldogs are ranked 15th in the league with 674.

3. There haven't been many close contests between the sides in recent times. The last game to be decided by less than a goal was a draw in round 14, 2002.

4. Essendon has won the last three games against the Bulldogs, but the Bombers haven't defeated the Bulldogs in four straight contests since 2003-2005.

5. The Bombers have the third best offence in 2013, averaging 106 points per game. The Bulldogs are ranked 12th with 352.8.

6. This will be the 154th clash between the sides, and Essendon has a clear advantage winning 91 games to 60. There have been two draws.