Round Four: Sydney Swans v Essendon
Thursday, April 8, 2021. 7:20pm. Gates open from 5:20pm.
Sydney Cricket Ground
The Sydney Swans return to the SCG on Thursday night for their Round Four clash against Essendon.
After starting their season with victories over the Brisbane Lions, Adelaide Crows and the Richmond Tigers, the Swans enter this clash with plenty of confidence.
John Longmire has made one change for the clash, welcoming Lance Franklin back into the side with Hayden McLean making way.
Franklin played in Round Two before being managed, with the star forward kicking three goals in his first game in over a year.
Franklin has kicked more majors against Essendon than any other side during his 947-goal career.
Franklin with return to a forward line up that has provided a real spark to start the season. Chad Warner and Errol Gulden have impressed early in the season, both claiming NAB AFL Rising Star nominations along with Braeden Campbell.
The undefeated Swans face an Essendon side who secured a victory over St.Kilda in Round 3.
The opposition will be strengthened following their first win of the season last week, with skipper Dyson Heppell to return from a back injury, replacing the injured Mason Redman (hamstring).
Both teams will enter the clash high on confidence, with a 45-point victory over the defending premiers and a 75-point victory over St.Kilda for the Swans and Essendon respectively.
The Swans are back in action at the SCG on Thursday night when they face Essendon. Take the family and be there LIVE. Click here to purchase your tickets to the clash.
Coming to the game this week? Make sure you check out all the important Match Day Information in our handy Match Day Hub ahead of the game.
Where to watch
The game will be broadcast live on 7mate, Fox Footy and Kayo from 7pm. Radio broadcasts via Triple M, ABC and AFL Nation.
We have teamed up with pubs around Sydney to give our Sydney Swans members and fans a home away from home, whether the team is on the road or playing at the SCG. Check out our premium venues, including their food and beverage offers available to our Swans family at our Swans Friendly Venues.
Heading to the game? View our Match Day Hub.
Last Time We Met
Sydney Swans 11.7.73 def by Essendon 12.7.79 – Round 2, 2020
The stats
Essendon have came away victors in their last two clashes against the Swans, with less that two goals separating the sides on both occasions. The Swans last defeated Essendon in Round 8 of the 2019 season, when they came away with a 5-point victory in another close fixture. Essendon have won 3 of the last five clashes, but if you look further back, Sydney have won nine of the last twelve clashes.
Sydney have also won 9 of their last 10 home games against Essendon.
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