Essendon’s training session this morning was as intense as any this pre-season and it was hardly surprising given the side’s first competitive hit out is just seven days away. A number of senior players will be rested from the exhibition match against the Swans at North Sydney Oval next Friday but for the rest it is time to stand up if they want to play a part in Essendon’s Wizard Cup campaign.

The hour-long skill session concentrated on short passing and handball skills before the groups spilt up to focus on match simulation and tactics.

Impressive on the track were a number of the younger players who will play an important role in 2005 if the Bombers are to succeed. Angus Monfries looked sharp, as did Kepler Bradley, while Jobe Watson was also in eye-catching form.

The look of James Hird training would have excited Bombers supporters. The captain who is in the great shape trained strongly and spent time in the midfield during match simulation along with Adam Ramanauskus.

Damien Cupido was back training with the main group after suffering hamstring soreness last week – he moved well during the session. Jason Johnson, Mark Johnson and Dean Solomon all trained solidly but didn’t participate in contact work. Ty Zantuck (back) trained indoors.

The Bombers will have a full scale intra-club match at Princes Park tomorrow morning, commencing at 10am.

Essendon’s match against the Swans is at North Sydney Oval commencing at 7pm. The Bombers take on Carlton at The Dome on Sunday, February 20th with that match commencing at 5.10pm.