Dreamtime at the \u2018G has produced some iconic contests over the years, but this edition shapes a little differently with Essendon and Richmond currently sitting 17th and 18th on the ladder.<\/p>\n
The pre-game festivities should once again deliver an incredible atmosphere at the MCG, even if the football itself may not reach the same heights.<\/p>\n
Richmond are battling significant injury issues and only just managed to field a full squad, while Essendon also enter the clash with just one win to their name in 2026.<\/p>\n
On paper, the Bombers should probably win, but the stronger value appears to sit within the player and game markets rather than trying to predict the result outright.<\/p>\n
Everything points toward a lower-scoring contest.<\/p>\n
The last four meetings between these clubs have all gone under the total points line, averaging just 130.8 points per game.<\/p>\n
Last season, in a similarly scrappy matchup between the sides, the game produced only 83 total points.<\/p>\n
Essendon\u2019s recent night games at the MCG have also trended heavily toward the under, with four of their last five finishing below the line.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, 14 of Richmond\u2019s last 16 matches at the MCG have also gone under.<\/p>\n
Essendon are likely to adopt a slower, possession-heavy style similar to what they used against Melbourne earlier this season.<\/p>\n
That game style suits Jaxon Prior perfectly across half-back.<\/p>\n
Prior is averaging 16.4 disposals per game this season and has recorded 15+ disposals in six of his last eight matches.<\/p>\n
Against Melbourne, he finished with 17 disposals and 10 marks while playing a key role in Essendon\u2019s controlled ball movement.<\/p>\n
With Ben McKay returning to handle more defensive responsibility, Prior should be freed up to intercept and distribute.<\/p>\n
Sullivan Robey has been one of the few bright spots in a difficult season for Essendon supporters.<\/p>\n
The young forward kicked two goals against Fremantle last week and looks capable of a genuine breakout performance against an undermanned Richmond defence.<\/p>\n
Robey was a prolific scorer during the back half of last year in the Coates Talent League and has now kicked at least one goal in three of his last five AFL appearances.<\/p>\n
This matchup gives him every chance to continue that run.<\/p>\n
Jack Ross has quietly become Richmond\u2019s most reliable midfielder throughout 2026.<\/p>\n
He\u2019s averaging 23.5 disposals per game this season and has reached 20+ disposals in eight of his 10 matches, including each of his last five.<\/p>\n
Across that five-game stretch, Ross is averaging an impressive 26.2 disposals.<\/p>\n
Essendon are conceding the second most disposals in the AFL this season, particularly to opposition midfielders, which sets this matchup up nicely for Ross once again.<\/p>\n