""We are obviously very disappointed. We set ourselves up for a massive week against Brisbane when we thought we were in a position where we could win the game because they have been a bit down,"" Mark McVeigh explained before training today.
""It obviously didn’t go our way but we get another chance this week with the Bulldogs.""
But the Essendon players also know that the undefeated team from the West will be a big challenge to overcome when they clash at the Dome.
""They are probably in the best form that we have seen the Bulldogs in a long time so true credit to all those younger guys who have come through and are starting to play well for them.
""But over the last six to eight years we have had a really good game against them, always winning. Hopefully we can continue that this week,"" McVeigh said.
And without giving too much away McVeigh suggested the selection committee might go with a smaller side to combat the fast paced Bulldogs.
""You would think that we would probably go a little bit smaller but in saying that a few our taller guys have been in really good form. We are hoping that Hirdy comes up this week as well so he will obviously add some experience because he is one of the best players going around.
""We think we can rotate a lot of players through the midfield that didn’t get a go last week. Those players that didn’t get a run would probably fit in well with their pace. We just have to get our hands on the ball and put our head over it and that is what we will be doing.""
One name that could return to the side is the speedster Jason Winderlich.
""He is one of those players who has a lot of pace when he gets the ball and runs through the line. If he trains well this week he will be right up there with a chance.""
Regardless of who gets a game on Sunday, one thing is for certain among the playing group. This game is crucial with the Bombers not wanting to be one win and two losses heading into the Anzac Day blockbuster.
