Weather overstated. Been lots of rain but don’t expect too much more from here. MCG drains well and the only risk is a slightly slippery ball, but negligible. Can’t be using the weather as an excuse.
I’m pretty confident we’ll win. Collingwood play best when they get fanatical, but it’s not a sustainable method and go to that well too often and you’ll find nothing there. By comparison Essendon actually has a defined game style that doesn’t rely on theatrics - though it’s no guarantee we’ll execute it properly.
I reckon Woosha has given them a sting and we’ll see a much better defensive effort all over the field, and that will be the difference - that and a dangerous forward line they can’t cover. Also reckon Franga’s vigour will have an impact. I’m tipping us by 17.