Essendon v Sydney Preview, Marvel Stadium

Essendon’s season hangs by a thread heading into the penultimate round as they take on league leaders Sydney on Friday night at Marvel Stadium. The Bombers’ wastefulness in front of goal came back to bite them last weekend against Gold Coast after the Suns went from the clouds to record their first win as the away team this season, courtesy of a Mac Andrew goal after the siren. It left Brad Scott’s side in 10th and two points outside the top eight instead of sitting in seventh heading into this weekend’s contest, where they essentially have to win to ensure their finals hopes remain alive heading into the final round. Scott will be forced into at least one change with Nik Cox ruled out with a concussion, which may pave the way for Dyson Heppell to play one final game in front of his home fans after he announced his retirement. Their opponents, Sydney, turned around their stuttering run of form with a comeback win over Collingwood at the SCG. Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner and Luke Parker were instrumental in turning around their final quarter deficit as the Swans retained their position atop the ladder this weekend. They are set to regain Lewis Melican this weekend, freeing Logan McDonald to return to attack this week. This matchup has a history of being tightly fought and entertaining contests, and the meeting this year was no exception as the Swans kicked away late to come away with a 30-point win at home.

TIP: Sydney by 11 points, Isaac Heeney to have 25+ disposals