After consecutive heavy defeats to Hawthorn and Collingwood, Essendon has admitted the ongoing supplements scandal that had seemingly galvanised their squad is now taking its toll. On Sunday, they face a West Coast side all but out of finals contention. The Eagles' only win in the past month came against Gold Coast last Saturday, and the Suns took them all the way at Patersons Stadium. While it remains unknown whether the Bombers will lose premiership points this season, this looms as a must-win game to keep their top-four aspirations intact. Jobe Watson was impressive in his return game against the Pies last week, and he can expect a warmer reception than he received from Eagles fans in round 14.
WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Sunday August 11, 1.10pm
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide and odds
LAST FIVE TIMES
R14, 2013, Essendon 15.8 (98) d West Coast 13.13 (91) at Patersons Stadium
R7, 2012, Essendon 16.17 (113) d West Coast 7.10 (52) at Etihad Stadium
R22, 2011, West Coast 20.14 (134) d Essendon 11.11 (77) at Patersons Stadium
R7, 2011, Essendon 16.10 (106) d West Coast 12.18 (90) at Etihad Stadium
R16, 2010, West Coast 20.12 (132) d Essendon 14.16 (100) at Etihad Stadium
THE SIX POINTS
1. It was only six weeks ago that Jobe Watson was famously booed by the West Coast faithful after admitting he believed he was given AOD-9604 in 2012. That night, Essendon overcame a 17-point deficit at the final change to win by seven points, as an emotional Watson starred with 29 touches and two goals.
2. The Bombers have had the wood over the Eagles recently, winning three of the past four clashes.
3. This is the 47th time the two sides have met and Essendon holds a 26-20 overall advantage.
4. At Etihad Stadium, Essendon's advantage is much clearer, winning nine of 11 contests including a 10-goal win early last year.
5. Essendon is ranked second for total disposals this season, while West Coast is 15th.
6. West Coast's Nic Naitanui is the only Eagle in the top 20 Official AFL Player Ratings. It's unclear whether the star ruckman will return for Sunday’s clash as he battles soreness after an injury-interrupted season.
