Matthew Knights has issued a strong message ahead of the Bombers’ Friday night blockbuster saying “it is going to be on” against the Blues at the MCG.

History shows Essendon’s recent dominance over Carlton, having beaten their old rivals in their last six encounters, however Knights says each week brings a new contest and won’t be underestimating his opponents this time around.

 “We certainly haven’t brought the history books out this week and we know it is a new contest and a new game. It will be a huge game and it is going to be on,” Knights said.

“They have had a big week and I would imagine they are going to be fierce for the whole four quarters.

“This sets up as a huge match between Carlton and Essendon in front of preferably 70,000 – 80,000 people and we would love to see all of our fans there tomorrow night so that we can win the lion’s share of support in the stadium.”
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Knights hopes the Bombers can replicate the form shown in last Friday night’s 33-point win over the Saints, saying he expects the victory to give the team confidence going into this week’s match.

 “The result of the St Kilda game allows us to go into the game with a really free mind and play spirited football against Carlton on Friday night which is what we are about,” Knights said.

“We will continue to chip away to win a little bit of respect back - that is what we did last week and that is what we will do again tomorrow night.

“It is great for our footy club to be involved in these clashes. Last Friday night was the first of the three – St Kilda, Carlton, Collingwood- and you couldn’t ask for more from that match.

“We have jumped one hurdle and this is the second game on the agenda and we are looking forward to it.”
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Knights says Winderlich is a “good chance” to come into the side this week but will make a final decision on his availability following training this morning.

“He has to get through some different bits and pieces today which will similar to what he will go through on Friday night whether that be tackling or contests,” Knights said.

“He will do a little bit out there today and then we will make a decision on him after training.

“He has made a dramatic recovery and is really looking forward to playing so we are going to give him every opportunity because he has had a big year.”

Scott Gumbleton is the only forced change this week due to a rib injury sustained in last week’s game.

Andrew Welsh has been ruled out of both VFL and AFL football this week following a heavy knock to the ribs in the VFL last weekend.

“Andrew was coming back from a groin injury in the VFL last week and copped a really heavy knock to the ribs and didn’t complete the game,” Knights said.

“He will miss both VFL and AFL this week and we are not sure how long he will be out.”
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