Essendon enter the clash with the Kangaroos looking to rebound after a loss to Sydney last week.

The Bombers were competitive for a half, before the strong Swans midfield took over.

There is no respite this week with North Melbourne in excellent form.

How do the Bombers stop the Kangaroos forwards?

With no James Gwilt, North Melbourne’s tall timber will stretch the Bombers defence.

Drew Petrie, Ben Brown and Jarrad Waite have been in excellent form, booting 48 goals between them in the seven games so far this season.

Nathan Grima, Michael Hartley and Patrick Ambrose are likely to take those match-ups while Matt Dea is another option.

Robert Shaw expects Grima to go to Petrie.  If that eventuates, Hartley would probably get the job on Waite, while Ambrose would go to Brown.

Regardless of who takes whom, the key to stopping the Kangaroos forwards will be the pressure placed on the entries into the forward 50. 

Does Mark Baguley stay in the forward line?

Baguley was excellent in his first crack as a forward last week.  The Vice-Captain picked up 16 possessions, but it was his three shots on goal and five tackles that justified the move.

The Bombers lack a small forward who can consistently hit the scoreboard and provide defensive pressure.

Hayden Skipworth told Bomber Radio the Baguley move was about not only addressing a need but also adding layers to the playing group, so the coaching staff has more options down the track.

Robert Shaw said the loss of Courtenay Dempsey from half back and the inclusion of Conor McKenna could mean Baguley returns to his normal defensive post this week.

Which Kangaroos midfielder poses the biggest threat?

The strength of North Melbourne this season has been their depth.  No player averages more than 23 disposals, yet they’re one of the highest scoring sides in the competition.

Jack Ziebell and Ben Cunnington lead the way at the clearances.  Both average around five per game.

Jamie Macmillan, Shaun Atley and Ziebell are the leaders for metres gained.

But it could be Todd Goldstein that requires the most attention.  He was best on ground last time these two teams met.  He’s kicked nine goals this season and is ranked second at North Melbourne for score involvements.

Matthew Leuenberger has been a strong contributor for the Bombers and his performance on Saturday will be important.