ESSENDON will be keen to bounce back from its Anzac Day loss, which compounded a difficult three weeks for the Bombers. But the Western Bulldogs will also be disappointed with their consistency against Adelaide last week, which saw them burst to an early lead but ultimately overrun. Expect a hostile response towards Stewart Crameri from Essendon supporters, in the first game the former Bomber forward has played against his old club. Essendon is likely to welcome back midfielders Brendon Goddard and Heath Hocking, as well as Tom Bellchambers, which will help their work around the stoppages. Winning stoppages will be the key given the Western Bulldogs' strength in this area.




WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Saturday May 3, 7.40pm

TV AND RADIO: Click here for the broadcast guide

LAST FIVE TIMES
R16, 2013, Essendon 18.13 (121) d Western Bulldogs 14.6 (90) at Etihad Stadium
R14, 2012, Essendon 21.14 (140) d Western Bulldogs 8.8 (56) at Etihad Stadium
R21, 2011, Essendon 23.12 (150) d Western Bulldogs 15.11 (101) at Etihad Stadium
R1, 2011, Essendon 16.17 (113) d Western Bulldogs 8.10 (58) at Etihad Stadium
R22, 2010, Western Bulldogs 17.5 (107) d Essendon 11.12 (78) at Etihad Stadium

THE SIX POINTS
1. The Dogs performed well against Essendon last year, having more disposals and more inside-50s. With a more potent forward line this season, they might be better placed to take their chances.

2. Essendon's game style is interesting: despite its drop-off in form, it remains ranked No.1 this season for kicks, disposals, marks and uncontested possessions.

3. The Bulldogs have struggled to get the ball inside 50 this season. They are ranked 15th in the AFL for forward entries, averaging just 45 a game.

4. Bombers supporters might say 'I told you so!' No team has received less free kicks in 2014 than the Bombers with just 79 in the opening six rounds.

5. The Official AFL Player Ratings show the Bombers to depend on Jobe Watson too much. The club's captain is ranked No.5 overall in the competition, but its next player is Brendon Goddard, back at No.55.

6. The Bulldogs, meanwhile, have four players in the top 50 of the rankings: Ryan Griffen (10), Matthew Boyd (28), Tom Liberatore (33) and Will Minson (44).

Prediction: Essendon by 12 points