Essendon has made six changes to its side for the round 19 Challenge Game against GWS.

The Bombers will unveil its 13th debutant of the season in key forward Liam McMahon for the Thursday night encounter, while experienced midfielder Dylan Shiel is also back for his first senior appearance since round 10.

Last year's Challenge Game hero Matt Guelfi has been recalled alongside fellow small forward Jade Gresham, with young ruck Vigo Visentini back in the line-up for his second career game at the expense of veteran Todd Goldstein off the five-day turnaround.

Five of the Dons' six changes have come through injury, with Ben Hobbs, Nate Caddy, Will Setterfield and Nic Martin all ruled out as reported earlier this week.

Elijah Tsatas will also be unavailable for Thursday night's game. Post-game soreness following the Richmond game led to scans which confirmed a hamstring strain for the midfielder - more detail will be conveyed in the Club's weekly injury report.

Essendon v Western Bulldogs

Round 20 Fri 25 Jul 2025, 9:20 AM

Marvel Stadium, Melbourne • VIC


Last Updated 8:38 am Friday, July 25, 2025