For the first time since the inception of the 'Dreamtime at the G' match in 2005, Richmond and Essendon will both be in the top eight leading into the centrepiece game of Indigenous Round. There is a lot at stake for both clubs, with Essendon coming off back-to-back losses against Geelong and the Brisbane Lions, and Richmond looking to snare a big scalp at the MCG after losses earlier this season to Collingwood and the Cats. A crowd of more than 80,000 should be on hand to see two deep midfields go head-to-head.
WHERE AND WHEN: MCG, Saturday May 25, 7.50pm
LAST FIVE TIMES
Rd 22, 2012: Richmond 13.24 (102) d Essendon 8.9 (57) at the MCG
Rd 8, 2012: Essendon 19.14 (128) d Richmond 15.19 (109) at the MCG
Rd 16, 2011: Essendon 15.15 (105) d Richmond 9.12 (66) at the MCG
Rd 9, 2011: Richmond 16.9 (105) d Essendon 13.11 (89) at the MCG
Rd 9, 2010: Essendon 19.16 (130) d Richmond 14.11 (95) at the MCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. Neither side has dominated recent contests, with the Tigers holding a 6-5 advantage since 2007. The wins are split at four apiece since the 'Dreamtime' concept began in 2005.
2. Brandon Ellis is a player on the rise, highlighted by his 39-possession game against the Demons. Ellis started the season ranked No.426 in the Official AFL Player Ratings and has risen to No.378. His steady progression should continue within more midfield time.
3. Since the 'Dreamtime' concept began in 2005, the average attendance is 66,672, with the past two matches attracting more than 80,000.
4. Essendon has the second-best attack this season, averaging 114 points per game. Richmond is ranked eighth with an average of 100 points per game.
5. No team has laid fewer tackles this season than Richmond, which has an average of 51.5 per game. Essendon is ranked seventh with 63.6 per game.
6. Both the Tigers and Bombers have been strong centre clearance teams this season. Essendon is ranked third and Richmond fifth.
