Essendon has arrived in Perth ahead of tonight’s match against West Coast.
The Bombers welcome back Matt Dea for the clash and will be looking to follow up their strong showing against GWS 11 days ago.
These are the burning questions.
How significant is the Worsfold factor?
John Worsfold was a key part of almost every successful moment the Eagles have registered across the first three decades of their existence. When they won their first two premierships, Worsfold was Captain. By the time of their third, he was Coach.
If the Essendon-West Coast clash at Domain Stadium in the NAB Challenge earlier this season is anything to go, there will be plenty of applause for the new Bombers Coach.
His knowledge of the conditions could also be a key factor. The ground is longer and narrower than the Melbourne venues the Bombers are used to. Some football experts say the shape of the ground requires teams to essentially play with two centre half forwards.
Worsfold will know what works and what doesn’t. He would have seen it all in the quarter of a century he spent calling Subiaco Oval home.
Can the Bombers pre-bye form translate?
Essendon played on, attacked and moved the ball with precision against the Giants before the bye. The fast and dry track at Etihad Stadium can allow for more free flowing football. The forecast is for a clear day in Perth, so conditions are unlikely to be factor.
Confidence surely will though. This Essendon group has steadily been taking shape over the course of the season. There have been exciting passages of play, but also moments of frustration.
With just one change to the side and some solid training sessions under their belt, the Bombers will be hoping for a repeat of the 16 marks inside 50 and 64% attacking efficiency they generated against the Giants.
Which Eagle do the Bombers need to shut down?
Matt Priddis, Luke Shuey and Andrew Gaff are each averaging more than 25 possessions per game this season.
While Priddis and Shuey like to win possession in the contest, Gaff hurts the opposition with relentless running. John Worsfold has rarely assigned hard midfield tags this season, so it will be up to David Zaharakis, Adam Cooney, Zach Merrett and co to ensure the Eagles midfield have to work both ways.
Shannon Hurn could be the Eagle that gets the closest attention. He averages four score involvements per game from half back. Mathew Stokes spent time on Heath Shaw when the Bombers played the Giants and could be in for a similar role against the Eagles.
