Essendon Performance Coach Guy McKenna says he was impressed with the way the players moved the ball throughout their latest match-play session.
The Bombers underwent a mini intra-club match ahead of the Club’s first JLT Community Series game against Collingwood on Thursday February 16.
“The movement with what ‘Woosha’ is trying to implement was good,” McKenna said.
“We were pretty happy with the way we moved the ball, obviously one side had to defend it as well so we’re happy with that and how we moved out of the stoppages.
“Overall it was pretty good.”
McKenna said the coaching group has been pleased with the way the young players have continued their progress.
"With the players who are returning being very senior and very good players, we were hoping that the group last year who moved forward last year didn't take a step back," McKenna said.
"Some of those players like [Kyle] Langford, [Jake] Long and Parish, you can see they're hungry for success. And their performances around [Jobe] Watson, [David] Zaharakis and [Brendon] Goddard were very good and very encouraging.
“Last year with [James] Kelly and Goddard and the boys that had to shoulder that responsibility and the environment they created has allowed those boys (the young players) to continue to do that.
“Last year was a bit like the grade one’s, this year they’re like the grade seven’s – you can’t shut them up. That’s a good sign.”
Langford has added size to his frame as he looks to establish himself in the Dons best side.
“He’s done an amazing pre-season, he’s got himself big,” McKenna said.
“His knowledge working with Paul Corrigan has gone to another level, so he’s got it all there.
“So far he’s ticking all the boxes and looking really sharp.
“He’s really chewing up the work and he’s playing some good footy."
Michael Hurley, Zach Merrett and Alex Morgan didn’t see out the match, but their injuries aren’t serious.
High Performance Manager Justin Crow will provide a full update later today.
Joe Daniher featured in the second half of the match-play session as he continues to increase his training load ahead of the start of the season.
“It’s exciting… just to see him to the little flicks, the ball control, kick a goal over his shoulder and when it goes in his area normally it stays in his area,” McKenna said.
