Essendon AFL skipper Brendon Goddard believes the Bombers are capable of pulling off an Anzac Day upset against under-siege Collingwood.

With Essendon highly competitive against Geelong last weekend for three quarters, Goddard says they are capable of winning their second game of the season if they can sustain that effort for the whole match.

“I have no question that we can compete but how long that lasts with a young group … you’re going to have ups and downs,” Goddard said on Tuesday.

“(But) I think anyone on their day can beat anyone.

“We had a good three quarters last week against a really quality team but their polish came out in the end.

“Collingwood have obviously had their struggles but we’re preparing for their best … it’s going to come at some stage but, hopefully, maybe delayed a little.”

The Magpies have come under intense scrutiny after a disappointing 1-3 start to the season, while the Dons’ identical 1-3 record has been more warmly received given the absence of 12 players serving anti-doping suspensions.

Monday’s blockbuster will be as close to a finals atmosphere as Goddard’s undermanned side is likely to experience this season and he has urged his teammates to make the most of it.

“The atmosphere will definitely be (like a final),” he said.

“Outside of the grand final, we know that it’s the biggest game in terms of crowd and atmosphere … it probably is like a final and it’s good for our young group to experience that.”