Essendon will not risk any of its key players in this weekend’s Bendigo Bombers practice match against Frankston in Learmonth. With minimal injury concerns just 11 days out from the season opener, the Bombers see no reason to risk adding to their injury list.

The vast majority of the Essendon list has completed all of a very demanding pre-season and the coaching panel will take this opportunity to ensure the team is fresh and ready to go come round one against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.

Jason Johnson (foot) and Scott Camporeale (Achilles) will miss round one and Jason Laycock is in doubt after straining a hamstring. Richard Cole is expected to return through the Bendigo side this weekend and should be available for the clash with the Crows.

The thin injury list, leaves the Essendon match committee with some difficult decisions to make when they sit down to pick the round one side. They will be pleased that a number of young draftees are pushing for senior selection.

Alwyn Davey has been the revelation with his blistering speed and tackling ability. Indeed, he has been the man to spark the Bombers when they looked flat during a couple of practice matches. His defensive pressure has been a highlight.

Leroy Jetta will also be in the mix come round one. Speed has been the highlight but he a;so has an exceptional ability to read the game and is good overhead for his size. Scott Gumbleton may yet come into contention, particularly if the Bombers want to try and exploit Adelaide’s lack of height.

IN Bendigo Bombers news, new recruit Jason Cloke will miss the first two rounds of the season after being found guilty of headbutting in last weekend’s practice match against Coburg.