SUMMARY
One of these clubs will set a new unwanted record this weekend by registering its longest losing streak in history. Essendon has lost 14 games in a row, an equal club record, since defeating Melbourne in round two. In 2006 they also lost 14 consecutive games before breaking the losing streak with a draw against Carlton and a win the following week against the Lions. The Lions have lost 12 games in a row, which has also equaled their worst ever run. The loser of Sunday's battle at Etihad Stadium will also fall a game behind in 18th place on the ladder, in a contest that could decide this year's wooden spoon and who takes the No.1 pick to the NAB AFL Draft.
It's a massive match for Justin Leppitsch's future as coach. Picture: AFL Media
WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Sunday, July 24, 1.10pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R8, 2015, Essendon 21.10 (136) d Brisbane Lions 12.6 (78), Etihad Stadium
R8, 2014, Essendon 9.11 (65) d Brisbane Lions 8.9 (57), Gabba
R8, 2013, Brisbane Lions 14.12 (96) d Essendon 12.14 (86), Etihad Stadium
R6, 2012, Essendon 19.15 (129) d Brisbane Lions 9.8 (62), Etihad Stadium
R8, 2011, Essendon 15.12 (102) d Brisbane Lions 9.12 (66), Gabba
THE SIX POINTS
1. Essendon and the Brisbane Lions meet for the 42nd time, with the Bombers holding the overall advantage with 24 games to 16. There has been one draw between the clubs.
2. The Lions will need to overcome a poor recent run of form at Etihad Stadium, where they have lost their last four games and five of the last six.
3. But Essendon isn't placed any better at their home ground, having lost a club record 11 consecutive games at the venue. They haven't won there since round eight last year, when they beat the Lions by 58 points.
4. Essendon's conversion has been costly in recent weeks. John Worsfold's side has had more scoring shots than St Kilda and Richmond in the past two games but fallen short in tight defeats.
5. Dayne Zorko hasn't let a challenging season stop him from compiling a good run of form for the Lions. The speedy midfielder has averaged 24 disposals and kicked 17 goals for the year.
6. Zach Merrett's brilliant season has seen him continue to push up the Schick AFL Player Ratings board. The Bombers' midfielder is now ranked at No.81 in the competition, having started the season at No.151.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR … Justin Leppitsch
A loss to the understrength Bombers will see the Lions fall a game behind them on the bottom of the ladder and heap more pressure on the coach.
PREDICTION: Essendon by 21 points
