A debut and the return of a fan favourite highlight this week’s team selection.

Three changes have been made from the team named in Round 1 as the Coaches continue to attempt to find the right team balance.

Draftee and former Magpie, Michael Hartley, will make his debut in the red and black.

The defender impressed for the Bombers in the NAB Challenge and was one of the top performers for Essendon VFL in last week’s practice match.

Hartley will be joined by the speedy Orazio Fantasia, who will play his first game for 2016.

Nick Kommer also returns to run out for his first senior game since round 22, 2013.

The small forward has overcome numerous injuries that have hampered his career and will look to add his trademark ‘mongrel’ to the forward line.

The trio come in for Jonathan Simpkin, Craig Bird and Shaun McKernan.

This weekend will also be a special occasion for Joe Daniher as he is set to run out in his 50th game for the Club.

Daniher has quickly reached the milestone having barely missed a game over the past two seasons.

Essendon will take on Melbourne in the Club’s first home game of the season this Saturday at the MCG.

Fans are encouraged to participate in a ‘Walk to the ‘G’ before the game.

Tickets for the game are still available and can be purchased here.

Round 2 – Team:



INS: Nick Kommer, Michael Hartley (debut), Orazio Fantasia

OUTS: Craig Bird (omit.), Jonathan Simpkin (omit.), Shaun McKernan (omit.)

Milestones: Michael Hartley (debut), Joe Daniher (50 games)

B: Matt Dea, Mitch Brown, Mark Baguley

HB: James Gwilt, Michael Hartley, Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti

C: Brendon Goddard, David Zaharakis, Jackson Merrett

HF: Zach Merrett, Patrick Ambrose, Kyle Langford

F: Mathew Stokes, Joe Daniher, Nick Kommer

R: Matthew Leuenberger, Ryan Crowley, Darcy Parish

I: Martin Gleeson, Orazio Fantasia, Adam Cooney, James Kelly