If the Bombers thought their great start to the season was going to mean an easy time on the training track this week they were sadly mistaken. The Bombers coaching staff put their players through a session which lasted just under two hours this afternoon in preparation for this Thursday night's match against Carlton. The great news for Essendon supporters was that All Australian half back Damien Hardwick trained extremely well and is certain to line up for his first game of the season. Dean Rioli began his rehabilitation indoors - he will certainly miss round three and possibly round four.

Chris Heffernan continued his rehabilitation after dislocating his knee cap in pre-season training. He ran laps tonight and is expected to return by round eight. Dean Wallis also trained tonight and will face a fitness test on Wednesday morning.