Robert Shaw says the Bombers will need to match the Swans on the inside if they’re to have a chance of winning the game.

Sydney sits in third spot on the ladder and is number one in the AFL for contested possession, inside 50’s and clearances.

Last week, Brisbane pushed the Swans all the way only to go down by three points.

Shaw said that game identified some areas the Bombers can look to exploit on Saturday.

“This is a group one race … and they’re (Sydney) in outstanding form,” Shaw said.

“It’s going to be a tough ask to win, I think Essendon people understand that because this is a great side.

“But they (Sydney) showed last week they’re vulnerable against quick movement.

“Brisbane should have won that game so there is a window of opportunity.

“They’re going to have to match them on the Sydney Cricket Ground in close and in tight because they’re masters of it.”

Essendon made five changes for the game, recalling Mark Baguley, Craig Bird, Shaun McKernan and giving opportunites to Nathan Grima and Mason Redman to don the sash for the first time.

Shaw isn’t surprised the Bombers decided to rest young midfielders Kyle Langford and Darcy Parish.

The pair have played in the first six home and away games and also featured in the NAB Challenge.

“I think he’s had a big campaign Langford, I think he’s been terrific – remember he played very well in the NAB Cup,” Shaw said.

“The selectors would have monitored Parish really closely, it has been a big campaign for him.

“A rest last week would have given him the opportunity to play against Hannebery, have a look at Parker – so you weigh up the rest factor with the learning experience.

“They monitor these young kids very closely so I think its pretty important that he probably has a rest at this stage.”

As two young players go out of the side, another exciting prospect gets his opportunity.

Redman has been a standout in the VFL this week, booting seven goals for the season and Shaw expects a first up match up with a battle hardened Swans outfit to offer a great learning opportunity.

“He’ll remember this debut against Sydney – it’s a big one,” Shaw said.

“Young Redman is a very exciting prospect.

“It’ll be a nervous plane trip for him going to Sydney but how exciting. 

“He’s mobile, aggressive, he’s a ‘goer’ and when he fills out in a couple of years he’s going to be a very exciting player.”