Both teams are desperate for a win to keep their seasons on track. The Bombers were courageous but ultimately fell short last week against the Bulldogs and the Saints worked hard but couldn’t match the rampaging Cats.
This match raises as many questions as answers: Will the Saints stick with their tall forward line, how hard have injuries hurt the Bombers, and which team will control the midfield?
Essendon has lost one of their best players this year in Mark McVeigh, and also will be without the improving Sam Lonergan this week. However in better news for the Bombers, they will welcome back captain Matthew Lloyd, Andrew Welsh and Angus Monfries, who will all add much needed firepower near goals.
Nathan Lovett-Murray, Adam McPhee and Alwyn Davey are sure to carry plenty of responsibility near goals and coach Matthew Knights will be hoping his midfielders - especially Brent Stanton - will continue to chip in as attacking options.
Tayte Pears presented well and created goals in attack in his first game last week and fans will be hoping he can quickly find his footing in the big league.
The midfield looms as an interesting battle. The Bombers have leg speed and no fear, but the Saints are battle hardened and skilled.
The possible match-up of Paddy Ryder on Nick Riewoldt is shaping as a classic contest between an established superstar and an emerging one. Dustin Fletcher carries best-on-ground form into his likely his battle with Justin Koschitzke, and Mal Michael will use 10-years of experience and brute strength against Fraser Gehrig.
Tall, fast and strong, if the Saints forwards get too many opportunities within kicking range they will cause plenty of headaches.
Henry Slattery is making his name as a backline stopper and, if not used in a shut-down role in the midfield, could find himself on Stephen Milne.
