Michael Hurley has been the rock in the Essendon defence all season and his performance will be crucial in the final result against St Kilda.

The key defender is averaging 25 disposals, seven rebounds and five spoils per game this season.

In his last three games, Hurley collected 30 or more possessions.

He's also distributing the ball at 80 per cent efficiency.

Hurley shapes as a potential match up for Nick Riewoldt.

The Saints champion has booted 23 goals this season.

And the player the Dons need to stop:

Jack Steven picked up 81 possessions in two games against the Bombers last year.

Last week, Steven had 31 disposals and kicked a goal against Richmond.

He's recorded 30 or more disposals five times this year.  But he's also had less than 20 disposals three times in the last six weeks.