The Sydney Swans return to Marvel Stadium in Round 9 to take on Essendon with both teams needing a win to force pressure on the top 8.

The Swans returned to winning ways last weekend with a 14-point victory over cross-town rivals GWS in Round 8, while the Bombers have now won 4 of their last 5 matches with a tight victory over North Melbourne.

Essendon had a slow start to the season but are gaining momentum off the back of solid performances from captain Zach Merrett and Archie Roberts who continues to rack up disposals across half back. For the Swans, the recently re-signed Chad Warner won the Brett Kirk medal for best on ground in the Sydney Derby, while Matt Roberts continues his breakout season in the backline.

02:44

"I think I've showed resilience through my journey" - Jordon

James Jordon reflects on his special journey to 100 games.

The Swans got the better of Essendon both times they met last year, beating the Dons by 30 points and 39 points respectively. Callum Mills gathered 26 disposals in the Round 23 match at Marvel Stadium, while Nic Martin had 32 touches in Essendon’s loss.

This Saturday, Essendon welcome two debutants into the team with Lewis Hayes and Archer Day-Wicks playing their first AFL game, while Jye Caldwell and Dylan Shiel return. Harry Jones, Jade Gresham and Jordan Ridley will all miss the match after suffering injuries against the Kangaroos. Just the one change for the Swans with Ben Paton returning from a minor calf strain while Lewis Melican misses through suspension.

James Jordon will play his 100th game.

01:35

Round 9 Team Selection presented by QBE Insurance

Senior Coach Dean Cox talks us through the one change ahead of Round 9 clash with Essendon.

Essendon coach Brad Scott says despite Sydney’s injury concerns, they will provide a tough challenge.

“I think that teams go through ebbs and flows at different stages but what is pretty constant with Sydney is that they've got absolute stars of the competition in their lineup,” Scott said.

“Gulden, Mills and couple of stars are missing, but Heeney and Warner are as influential as any midfielders in the competition at the moment. Some of their, I suppose, off-Broadway-type players are very, very capable, and don't get the recognition in Melbourne that they deserve.

“Certainly, at AFL clubs, we give them the recognition,” Scott said.

First bounce on Sunday afternoon at Marvel Stadium is 4.15pm.