PLAYING the Anzac Day match was one of the incentives for Essendon's top-up players to join the club, says Bombers skipper Brendon Goddard.

Some of the recruits, including James Kelly and Mathew Stokes, have played in Grand Finals and other big games, but this will be their first Anzac Day game.

Goddard said it is one of the best parts about playing for the Bombers.

"That's one of the attractions most guys have in coming to Essendon. I know it was one of mine," Goddard said.

"When they (the top-up players) initially joined the club, that's something they talked about right off the bat, and how much they're looking forward to it."

"I'd argue the atmosphere is better on Anzac Day (than Grand Finals). Grand Finals are probably 30 or 40 per cent corporates (in the crowd)."

Prior to the season, Channel Seven commentator Dennis Cometti suggested Essendon should not play in the Anzac Day game this year.

Goddard had little time for such a suggestion.

"It's a little bit disrespectful for Kevin Sheedy and Graeme Allan, who initiated the concept," he said.

Sheedy coached Essendon at the time, while Allan was Collingwood's director of football.

"Regardless of form, regardless of ladder position, I think it's only fair that Collingwood and Essendon participate forever.

"I actually took that up with Dennis on the weekend over radio.

"He gave us our blessing, that we were allowed to take part. So thank you Dennis, I appreciate that."

The round four clash against Collingwood will be Goddard's third Anzac Day match at Essendon, but the first time he will skipper the side.

"Looking back, you wouldn't have thought (he would ever captain on Anzac Day). I'm very honoured," he said.

The Bombers have impressed the footy world with their ability to fight out games.

Ladder positions have little to do with the contest on Anzac Day. Picture: AFL Media

They were in the contest for much of last Saturday afternoon's game against Geelong before eventually going down by five goals.

With Collingwood sitting one spot ahead of Essendon on the ladder and only 4.9 per cent separating the teams, it looms as a chance for the Bombers to notch their second win of the season.

Their first came against Melbourne in round two, at the MCG.

"Collingwood have obviously had their struggles but we're preparing for their best.

"It's going to come at some stage, but hopefully it's just delayed a week or two."