Essendon and Richmond will square off in the 12^th installment of Dreamtime at the ‘G.

Each side has made three changes; with the Bombers welcoming back some pace and midfield run and the Tigers strengthening their defence. 

These are the burning questions.

Can the Bombers improve their clearances?

John Worsfold said the side’s clearance and stoppage work has been a focus on the training track this week after the Saints dominated (20-6 out of the centre) last Sunday.

Ryan Crowley will add strength and experience to the existing midfield group, though he may also spend time across half forward.

Essendon is 17^th for clearances and centre clearances, and slightly better at the stoppages.  Richmond hovers around mid table in all three categories.

Much will depend on the work of David Zaharakis.  He’s had 11 more clearances than any other Essendon player this season.  If he can gather cleanly and break away, it could open some avenues to goal for the Bombers.

Zach Merrett and Adam Cooney are Essendon’s next best clearance players and they’ll need to continue their good form if the Dons are to match it in the middle.

How do the Bombers curb Cotchin and Martin?

Essendon will need to nullify the influence of at least one of Dustin Martin or Trent Cotchin if the side is to get over the line.

Cotchin leads the Tigers in most statistical categories while Martin is also having a strong season.

John Worsfold could assign Craig Bird or Ryan Crowley the job of running with Cotchin.

Former Tiger, Matt Dea shapes as a potential match-up when Martin heads forward.

How will the Bombers respond on the big stage?

Essendon will have learned a lot from their Anzac Day experience earlier this season.  The Bombers struggled to adjust early and the game was over by half time.

They have another opportunity on Saturday night to sample life on the big stage.  Thirteen Essendon players will get their first taste of Dreamtime at the ‘G.

John Worsfold said earlier this week that performing well in these blockbusters will be good preparation for when the team is squaring off in finals and top of the table clashes down the track.

Win, lose or draw on Saturday night – the Bombers will certainly learn.  And that can only benefit them in the future.