Bombers boosted by extra week

ESSENDON looms as the biggest winner of the contentious pre-finals bye, the second year in a row a team outside the four is advantaged by the fixture.

All-Australian defender Michael Hurley (calf) is set to return in Saturday weeks’ cutthroat final against Sydney, while the extended break puts goal sneak Orazia Fantasia in the selection frame.

Fantasia tore his hamstring three weeks ago and would not have been considered had the Bombers’ elimination final been this week.

Swingman Cale Hooker (calf) is expected to play also, barring further setbacks, after he was a late withdrawal yesterday.

Bombers veteran Brendon Goddard said the trio would be “pretty good” chances to return.

“I think it’s (bye) only going to benefit us,” Goddard said. FINALS - WEEK 1 Thursday (Qualifying final)

Crows v GWS, Adelaide Oval, 7.50pm Friday (Qualifying final)

Cats v Tigers, MCG, 7.50pm Saturday (Elimination final) Swans v Bombers, SCG, 4.20pm (Elimination final)

Power v Eagles, Adelaide Oval, 7.50pm