SUMMARY
Two weeks ago this game held much less appeal, with the Bombers struggling with just two wins after eight rounds and the Tigers rampaging towards another top-four finish. But Essendon's form has turned around, with impressive wins over Geelong and Greater Western Sydney. Both were comprehensive victories that have given Essendon's season a pulse, and if John Worsfold's men can overcome the Tigers in the annual Dreamtime at the 'G contest then they will be back on track. Richmond has also shown a couple of cracks in recent weeks, losing to West Coast in Perth and being stretched by the out-of-form Saints last week before getting on top late in the game. Damien Hardwick says the Tigers still need to improve in a couple of areas, and the Bombers will be trying to pinpoint them and expose them on the big stage on Saturday night.
WHERE AND WHEN: MCG, Saturday, June 2, 7.25pm AEDT
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R10, 2017, Richmond 11.15 (81) d Essendon 10.6 (66) at the MCG
R17, 2016, Richmond 16.6 (102) d Essendon 11.17 (83) at the MCG
R10, 2016, Richmond 16.9 (105) d Essendon 10.7 (67) at the MCG
R22, 2015, Richmond 10.14 (74) d Essendon 7.5 (47) at the MCG
R9, 2015, Richmond 10.12 (72) d Essendon 8.11 (59) at the MCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. Dustin Martin has collected seven Brownlow Medal votes in the past three games the Tigers have faced Essendon (two best-on-grounds and a one-voter in 2015). Can he continue his run of form against the Bombers?
2. Essendon ranks highly for tackles this season, placed sixth overall in the competition with an average of 68.6 a game. In the past two weeks the Bombers have laid a combined 176 tackles to their opposition's 126.
3. Richmond has dominated Essendon recently, winning the past six encounters between the sides. The Bombers last won in round 11, 2014.
4. The Tigers have been one of the strongest finishing teams this season, winning seven of 10 final quarters so far this season. Essendon has won just three final quarters.
5. Both sides have been strong in the air inside-50 this year. Richmond is ranked second in the competition averaging 13.7 marks a game, while Essendon is ranked fifth in the AFL with an average of 12.
6. Josh Caddy is in career-best form, which has seen him rise up the Schick AFL Player Ratings board. He started the season at No.148 but is now ranked 108.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR …
Bombers recruit Jake Stringer has enjoyed some strong form in recent weeks and booted three goals last week against Greater Western Sydney. This week will be his 100th AFL game, having crossed from the Western Bulldogs last year.
PREDICTION: Richmond by 23 points
