Who stops Bruce?

Potentially the most important question for this afternoon is who will get the job on Josh Bruce. As covered in the closer look, Bruce has been unstoppable against the Bombers in recent encounters. He has kicked 15 goals in his last three games against the Bombers, including five earlier this year. While the young forward is only part of an exciting Saints’ forward line, stopping his impact early will be paramount for the Bombers’ defenders. This might be a job for Patty Ambrose in his first game back from injury.

To tag, or not to tag?

Jack Stevens has very much led the midfield charge for the Saints so far this year. He also had his best game for the season against the Bombers in round 9, where he collected 40 disposals, nine inside 50s and 10 clearances. While his hard working nature will be hard to stop, it may be Craig Bird’s job to follow Stevens around. Bird has shown that he not only has the ability to nullify the impact of opposition players during the game, but also win the ball and help move the Bombers forward. 

Which way will the tap go?

The Bombers welcome back Shaun McKernan for only the third time this year. Although he has proven that he is more than up to the task in the VFL, McKernan will be looking for a big performance this afternoon in order to keep his spot in the senior side. It won’t be easy for the big man, as he will have to the majority of the rucking and come up against St.Kilda’s Tom Hickey. However, McKernan will also have the support of Sam Michael and, if required, Joe Daniher too. While McKernan does give up some height to Hickey, he has proven in the past that he is capable of still creating a strong contest in the ruck. It will also be important for him to win the ball at the ground level and help Essendon’s midfielders clear the contest.  

 Can the young Bombers get the job done?

Just eight of the 22 named by John Worsfold have played more than 50 games. Young stars Joe Daniher and Zach Merrett are among those eight, highlighting the youthful flavour in the Bombers line-up. But what this side lacks in games played, it makes up for in form. Kyle Langford and Jayden Laverde return after some impressive showings in the VFL and Conor McKenna returns after finding a new home at half back. Darcy Parish and Orazio Fantasia have been key players all year, while Michael Hartley, Paddy Ambrose and Matt Dea will play a key role in defence against the Saints.