Kevin Sheedy and Mick Malthouse are two of the enduring figures in AFL coaching circles and they will lock horns again tomorrow at the MCG. And they will be made to earn their keep with some critical match-ups certain to influence the outcome of the Anzac Day match. Blumfield v Buckley, Richardson v Lucas and Barnes v Fraser are just three of the crunch match ups which could eventuate tomorrow. The weather conditions might make it tough for either side to really break the game open but even minor victories in the above duels could make the difference.

Justin Blumfield v Nathan Buckley

It is difficult to know exactly who will take Buckley but Blumfield would seem to be one of the leading candidates. You need experience and an excellent areobic capacity to handle Buckley and Blumfield has both in his favour. Blumfield also has the ability to hurt Buckley the other way where his ability to kick a goal could make him pay for any lack of accountability. The Buckley battle will be an enthralling one no matter who gets the job but Blumfield looks the most likely.

John Barnes v Josh Fraser

Barnesy rarely plays two bad ones in a row and he was simply superb against Sydney last Friday night. Barnes had struggled against Carlton the week before but he turned it around in difficult conditions at the SCG - convincingly defeating Greg Stafford. There are huge wraps on Fraser and he undoudtedly has loads of ability. Fraser is similar to Barnes in that he has a good leap and runs well. It looks a good match up and Bomber fans will be hoping that Barnes' experience will see him come out on top.

Lucas v Richardson

Lucas' has been an underrated player for the Bombers this season and again he made a significant impact in last weekend's win. he might not be kicking bags of goals or taking mark after mark but he has done some good bullocking work for the Bombers. If he hasn't marked the ball he has brought it down to the front of the pack where the Essendon crumbers have been able to feed off him. Richardson is also in good form beating a good player in Brad Ottens last week. Richardson has a height edge but Lucas has mobility on his side - if the rain continues you would expect Lucas to be better suited.

For the full preview of tomorrow's match match go to the Match Preview.