Essendon to clash with Melbourne in AFL Round 14 showdown

Melbourne aim to avoid a repeat of their upset loss to Essendon earlier in the season as they meet the Bombers at the MCG in Round 14. The Demons sit 8‑5 on the ladder, bolstered by Kysaiah Pickett’s 28 disposals and three goals, and a strong midfield led by Jack Steele and Harvey Langford. Max Gawn continues to dominate stoppages, and the team’s scoring and inside‑50 numbers rank among the league’s best. Essendon, despite only one win, have become more competitive, with Zach Merrett and Sam Durham in form and Ben McKay shifted forward, scoring three goals in his last two games. The Bombers’ defence has tightened with Jordan Ridley’s return.

In the VFL, the Casey Demons named a side to face Essendon at Casey Fields, featuring the return of Changkuoth Jiath from injury alongside newcomers Latrelle Pickett and Tom McDonald. The club will also wear a heritage jumper marking the 30th anniversary of its 1996 premiership. The double‑header includes a Casey Demons VFLW match earlier in the day.