Round 11 Preview

[mikeod 21]

Essendon v Melbourne

Once again Melbourne are given the opportunity to open the round on a Friday night, and would hope to put on a better showing than they managed last Friday against Carlton, losing by 47 points.

Essendon are coming off a bye, with their last match being the Dreamtime at the ‘G, where they went down to a spirited Richmond by 16 points.

Not a whole heap to write home about for the Demons last week. They had a depleted line up, but were non-competitive for parts of the game – criticised by both opposition and media for playing ‘bruise-free football’. No multiple goal scorers for the night – they could only manage six majors as a team – and their forward structure (or lack thereof) will be under the microscope this week.

The Bombers loss to Richmond was certainly a slight stumble in their rise up the ladder. That said, their own depth is being tested, having missed captain Jobe Watson, and defenders Hurley, Hooker and Pears. David Zaharakis, Leroy Jetta and Angus Monfries all managed three goals in the loss

Changes:

Essendon:

IN: Colyer, Browne

OUT: Davey, Reimers

NEW: Alex Browne (Oakleigh Chargers)

Melbourne:

IN: Trengove, Scully, Gawn, Strauss, Howe

OUT: Bate, Warnock, Petterd, Maric, Newton (foot)

NEW: Max Gawn (Sandringham U18s), Jeremy Howe (Hobart)

Both teams remain somewhat under-manned, though Melbourne’s inclusion of Scully and Trengove strengthens its midfield immeasurably. The Bombers remain without Hurley, Watson, Pears and Hooker – all of whom will be in with a chance to play next week.

Its hard to tip Melbourne after its performance last week, but its important to remember that the Bombers are coming off a poor loss themselves and thus far this season, the bye has been unfriendly to all who have come across it. Melbourne has a chance here if the team can increase its intensity and improve delivery up forward.

Essendon, though, will anticipate the Demons’ rise in intensity. This is a big game for the Bombers to ensure its season does fall by the wayside.

Essendon by 18

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