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Today the Collingwood Magpies host the Essendon Bombers at the MCG in the annual Anzac Day clash. Join The Roar for live scores and coverage from 2:40pm (AEST).
Ninety-nine years on from the Gallipoli landing, these two teams meet to once again celebrate the legendary Anzac spirit.
The Bombers had an emphatic win last year, seeing David Zaharakis win the Anzac medal, but this year it is Collingwood who will start as favourites.
The Magpies are going in unchanged into the blockbuster clash, choosing not to alter the team that scored a comprehensive 35-point win over North Melbourne in Round 5.
Coach Nathan Buckley has vowed not to underestimate the Bombers, but rest assured, the Pies will head into this one full of confidence.
Essendon on the other hand have made sweeping changes after losing their last two on the trot, the first to Fremantle and the more recent to St Kilda.
Despite Mark Thompson warning that he might be in trouble after a poor performance last week, Jake Carlisle has retained his place in the side. Leroy Jetta has been dropped however, while Heath Hocking will miss with soreness and David Myers has been sidelined by a minor hamstring concern.
To fill the gaps the Bombers have recalled notable goal-kicker Jason Winderlich, defender Courtenay Dempsey, and first-year utility Zach Merrett into the side.
After getting through his first game unscathed in the VFL last week, Tom Bellchambers has been named as an emergency for the match. It would not be a big surprise to see him join the squad as a late in, to add height to the forward line and provide relief for Patrick Ryder in the ruck.
Prediction:
Collingwood are rightfully considered the favourites as they come in with all the momentum. However, the Bombers have risen to the occasion before, and could do so again. I’ll put the Pies with a nose in front, but I expect another thrilling contest.
Collingwood by 6 points.
Join The Roar for live scores and coverage from 2:40pm (AEST).