Essendon and Carlton have won the most premierships in the history of the AFL/VFL.  But the Bombers sit two clear if the flags won before 1897 are included.

Having squared off 242 times, the Blues have their noses slightly in front (121-115) and there have been six draws.  The sides have met in 20 finals with the ledger split at 10 apiece, and they’ve also clashed in six Grand Finals where again the ledger is deadlocked at three all.

The Madden Cup 

Each season Essendon and Carlton contest the Madden Cup, which is named in honour of Simon and Justin Madden.

Simon played 378 games for Essendon between 1974 and 1992.  He was a two-time premiership player, three time All-Australian, four time best and fairest, Norm Smith medal winner and three time leading goalkicker.

Justin started his career at Essendon, but after playing 45 games he crossed to Carlton.   By the end of his career Justin had played 332 games, was a two-time premiership player, two time best and fairest and an All-Australian.