Essendon coach Matthew Knights believes his developing side can rise to the occasion against the reigning Premiers on Friday night despite a poor recent record against the Cats.
Knights is confident a solid pre-season will pay dividends and welcomes the early opportunity to gauge Essendon's progress against the benchmark of the competition.
“We’re under no illusions that they’re (Geelong) in pretty good shape leading into Round 1 but we feel we’re better prepared than we’ve ever been, not only for Friday night’s game but for the whole season,"" Knights told Bomber.tv today.
“In the past we’ve been out-muscled by Geelong and they have really had their way with us, but now we’re looking to rectify that.
“We can put the word 'young' away. We’ve had two years to find our feet and we’ve gotten a great list together.”
Knights said he was looking forward to the much anticipated return of key position players David Hille and Scott Gumbleton, who are both certaint to play.
“In the last year or so the Essendon side has run out onto the ground without them so it’s great to have them back,"" he said.
Gun forward recruit Mark Williams will also don the red and black to make his debut for the club.
“Mark comes with a history of quality performances on a big stage. I think he’s reasonably nervous but looking forward to Friday night’s game,” Knights said.
“Mark will be flexible for us and we’re hopeful he will be able to play two or three different roles in our forward line.”
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