Gralin
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Melbourne Forecast
Sunny. Winds northerly 20 to 30 km/h.
What it means for Essendon: The Bombers' finals hopes are only just hanging on after their comprehensive defeat at the hands of West Coast last week. They have struggled against the best teams this year and need a win to keep within touching distance of the top eight.
What it means for Greater Western Sydney: The Giants have won four of their past five games and are in good shape. This is their first visit to Marvel Stadium this year so they'll be keen to get another win on the board in Melbourne, where they are 1-1 so far this season.
The stat: Giants midfielder Josh Kelly has averaged 28 disposals in four games against Essendon, which is the second best average against any of his opponents (narrowly behind 28.75 disposals in four games against Hawthorn).
The match-up: Patrick Ambrose v Jeremy Cameron
Essendon defender Patrick Ambrose signed a two-year contract extension and is playing the best footy of his career. He would seem best suited to take on star Giants forward Jeremy Cameron, who is leading the Coleman Medal race with 40 goals. But Cameron's form isn't reflected in the Official AFL Player Ratings, where he's ranked the 107th best player in the game.
It's a big week for: Adam Saad
The running half-back was subdued by West Coast last week, held to 12 disposals and little influence after the Eagles made plans to shut him down. He needs to be back firing to give the Bombers a chance on Thursday.
Big call: Giants star Toby Greene boots five goals in the best performance of his season.
Prediction: Greater Western Sydney by 34 points
Source: AFL Website
