The bookends will be of particular interest to Essendon supporters tonight. Mal Michael makes his first appearance in a red and black jumper and how he gels with his fellow defenders will be a key to the Bombers’ fortunes in 2007. In the absence of Matthew Lloyd, Courtney Johns will line up in the goal-square and he needs to consistently produce his best in 2007.
Of course, many eyes will be closely monitoring the performance of Essendon’s younger players in tonight’s game. Bachar Houli has been rewarded for an excellent pre-season with a place in the starting 18 as has Sam Lonergan. Lonergan is one of the young midfielders Essendon hope will take the next step this year.
Leroy Jetta, Tom Hislop, Lachlan McKinnon, Alwyn Davey, Heath Hocking and Jay Neagle will all be given an opportunity to impress tonight. Neagle was a standout in last weekend’s practice match kicking four goals from full forward when matched up against Mal Michael.
Leroy Jetta and Alwyn Davey both have blinding speed and that will please Essendon fans that have been concerned with the side’s lack of pace in recent years. Jetta will come off the bench and play forward while Davey is more likely to push into a midfield role.
Live scoring of tonight’s match will be on essendonfc.com.au.
