Two of the AFL’s greatest rivals will go head to head in the inaugural ‘Clash of the Sash’ between Essendon and Richmond at the MCG this Saturday night.

Little separates these two talented, young, developing teams and the latest installment in this proud rivalry promises to be an exciting encounter. 

Both teams have plenty on the line, with just one win each since their last meeting in the 2011 Dreamtime game. 

It is the perfect recipe for another modern-day blockbuster between two traditional Victorian rivals in front of a packed house at the MCG.

As part of the celebration for this Saturday night’s Clash of the Sash, supporters of both clubs will be encouraged to wear their preferred sash to the game, with prizes for those who don the famous red or yellow sash.

Essendon and Richmond are two of only three AFL/VFL teams to have worn a traditional across-the-chest sash (the other being South Melbourne in its early years). 

The Bombers have worn their sash since 1877 (134-year history,) while the Tigers have had theirs since 1914 (97-year history).

In addition to the fight for the precious four premiership points, the two teams will wage a social media battle with the losing team having to change their Facebook and Twitter avatar to the winning team’s logo for two days.

The last time these two teams met, Richmond triumphed in front of nearly 84,000 fans, in the annual Dreamtime at the ‘G blockbuster. 

Can the Bombers square the ledger in 2011, or will the Tiger roar prevail again?

Put on your battle armour and join the fight at this Saturday night’s Clash of the Sash.