Essendon face St Kilda on Sunday in what shapes as an important contest for both sides.

The Bombers will attempt to atone for their loss against the Pies last weekend, while the Saints are looking to hit back after a disappointing loss to Carlton.

A number of burning questions surround the clash, which is sure to be a hot contest at Etihad Stadium.

Can Hooker have a day out?

The last time these teams met back in round five last season, Cale Hooker was sublime.  The key-backman collected 29 disposals as well as clunking 15 marks.

Hooker has gone from strength-to-strength and continues to be one of the league’s best defenders.  If the Saints are to have any chance in this match, they must conjure up a solid plan to limit Hooker’s influence.

Can the Saints cover Riewoldt?

A courageous leader, fearless player and skillful athlete – there’s no shame in the developing Saints missing a champion of the game.   

After tearing apart the Bombers last time they met, booting five goals in an emphatic performance, his absence will be felt.  But Josh Bruce is causing opposition defences headaches already this season and Tim Membrey caused the Bombers a few problems last season when he was at the Swans.

Can the Bombers value their possession?

Essendon have shown they are a team who loves to possess the ball.  The Bombers are ranked second for total disposals after four rounds.  Holding onto the ball has allowed the Bombers to set up chains of attack and use the switch to slice their way through opposition zones. 

However, after dominating the possession count last weekend against Collingwood, it is the way the Dons use the ball that will be sure to be a focus this weekend.  Quality over quantity must be a priority. 

Scrappy affair?

Essendon (4^th) and St Kilda (6^th) have been among the leading teams in the AFL for tackles in 2015, averaging 73 and 70.5 per game respectively.

With that in mind, the final result is potentially going to swing in the favor of the side that will be able to handle the heat from the intense pressure that both sides are certain to bring to Sunday’s contest.