Essendon started with Tom Bellchambers, Zach Merrett, Dyson Heppell and Jobe Watson in the middle of the ground.

Michael Hartley has the job on Charlie Dixon and Michael Hurley is on Jackson Trengove. Mark Baguley picks up Robbie Gray when the Port Adelaide star goes forward.

At the other end of the ground Joe Daniher is being opposed by Tom Jonas and Cale Hooker has Jack Hombsch as his match-up.

The Bombers were able to kick the first six goals of the game in a blistering ten minute opening to the match. In that period, the Dons had more than double the possessions (85-36) and more than double the inside 50s (13-6).

Travis Colyer was one of the early sparks with ten first quarter disposals including three intercept possessions and four contested possessions.

Cale Hooker continued to provide a strong aerial presence. He kicked three first quarter goals and was able to at least bring the ball to ground against multiple opponents on a number of occasions.

The Power responded with the opening three goals of the second term to cut the margin to 21 points.

Hooker responded with his fourth of the game to end the run of goals.

Zach Merrett added another before Hooker snapped his fifth before Joe Daniher added two more to stretch the margin beyond eight goals.

At half time the margin was 52 points.  Dyson Heppell (21 disposals), Brendon Goddard (17), Zach Merrett (17) and Jobe Watson (16) are the leading ball winners.

The Bomber recorded 39 inside 50s in the first half, their highest total to the main change in any game this season.