Speed v Strength
Freo’s big midfielders will need to be on their game against a quick and classy Essendon midfield. There promises to be some mouth watering match ups with the likes of Nat Fyfe, Stephen Hill and David Mundy to take on Jobe Watson, Dyson Heppell and Brendon Goddard. Fremantle have managed to win the midfield contests so far this year but Essendon are another challenge.

Essendon’s interstate record
Fremantle will hope to turn the tables on the Bombers, who’ve won two of their past three matches against Fremantle at home. Essendon have a remarkable interstate record of eight wins from their past 10 games outside of Victoria. The last time the teams met at Domain Stadium, in Round 4 last year, Freo had a comfortable 53-point win.

Match Preview: Fremantle v Essendon

Young and Old
Both teams have a wealth of experience and youth. With Essendon stalwart Dustin Flecther turning 40 this week, Freo’s senior players such as Matthew Pavlich and Aaron Sandilands will feel like toddlers. Essendon’s experienced recruits Adam Cooney and Brendon Goddard are also crucial in the centre. The young brigade at Freo, led by Lachie Neale and Cam Sutcliffe, have impressed this year, as have young Bombers Zach Merrett and Joe Daniher.

Footy at 40 is a wonderful achievement: Lyon