The countdown is on until the Bombers final big hit-out before the JLT Community series. 

Players will square off against each other in an intra-club match on Wednesday that will closely resemble a normal AFL game.

All the rotations, umpires and rules will be in play. 

The Bombers open their pre-season campaign on Thursday February 16 against Collingwood at Etihad Stadium.

Throughout the summer coaches and players have spoken about the increased competition for spots in the Dons best 22.

Wednesday’s intra-club game will provide the best indication yet of who is in line for a spot in the side for the round one blockbuster against Hawthorn.

Essendon Champion Scott Lucas and Fox Sports News AFL Correspondent Julian de Stoop will provide commentary and analysis throughout the broadcast.

Coach John Worsfold, Chief Executive Xavier Campbell, List and Recruiting Manager Adrian Dodoro and General Manager of Football Rob Kerr will join the commentary team during the coverage.

Following the match the post-game press conference will also be broadcast live on the website.

It all begins at 9:40am AEDT on Wednesday February 8 LIVE on essendonfc.com.au.