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After a controversial week for both clubs, the Essendon Bombers host the North Melbourne Kangaroos for Friday night footy. Join us for live scores and commentary of all the action from 7:30pm (AEST).
Both teams are three wins three losses so it is a vital game to win and an opportunity for both sides to get into positive territory.
There are many variables at play in this game and it makes predicting a result a 50/50 chance.
How will the Essendon players react to the week’s news that WADA are appealing their anti-doping verdict? It could see them rise to the occasion to prove doubters wrong, like they have done in so many games in the last two seasons. On the flipside they might just be totally deflated.
This is a game for leaders to show the way, and Jobe Watson is the man to do it – as he has so many times during this saga.
On the football front, Essendon are playing very defensively and continually kick back and across the ground. They have no quick ball movement forward and subsequently are finding it hard to score. If they are to be a finals contender, this needs to be fixed, but they are capable of turning their game style around.
Ben Howlett is a small forward who impresses every time. He exerts tackling pressure up forward and adds a goal or two every game.
Meanwhile, Brad Scott is being investigated by Tasmanian police after last week’s game saw him allegedly involved in a scuffle with a security guard. Will this distract the North players? They have a habit of playing well and then dropping games they should win. North needs to stamp out this inconsistent form to fulfil their finals aspirations.
Todd Goldstein leads the AFL in ruck hit outs and will control this position again against Essendon. He also gives great value around the ground with his general marking.
Unfortunately North still rely heavily on Brent ‘Boomer’ Harvey to generate a lot of their drive. This year he has played behind the ball more and is still proving a strong disposal winner.
The main selection news is at Essendon, where David Zaharakis is out injured and veteran Dustin Fletcher returns to bolster their defence.
Prediction
The pressure of the week will galvanise Essendon to stun North by the tune of 21 points.
Will Essendon’s players’ resilience come to the fore again or will North focus on the footy and stamp themselves as a genuine top team? Join The Roar from 7:50pm (AEST) for score updates and debate in our live blog.
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