Essendon were put through their strongest hit-out of the pre-season so far, enduring an intense match simulation.

The 75-minute four-quarter hit-out in sunny conditions at the NEC Hangar saw a competitive clash between the playing group.

The match saw a very good level of skill between both the 'red' and the 'black' sides, with players moving between the two teams throughout the match. 

From the outset, Darcy Parish was influential, commanding stoppages and clearances in tandem with Zach Merrett who was reliable as ever by foot or hand.

Defensively, Jordan Ridley looks set to be another cornerstone part of Essendon's back six after providing a composed performance with intercept marking a big theme of his game, while new draftee Rhett Montgomerie didn't look out of place in his aerial and defensive displays.

Off the halfback line, Andrew McGrath looked assured in a return to his early-career position, breaking lines and proving too strong in one-on-one contests.

Young key forwards Kaine Baldwin and Pat Voss stood tall with strong marking and goal conversion a big feature for both.

Sam Draper had a strong battle with fellow ruckmen Andrew Phillips and Nick Bryan, but turned into an imposing force when resting forward with multiple contested grabs and a special on-the-run goal.

Essendon will continue to build ahead of their first official practice game against Gold Coast at Metricon Outer Oval on Thursday, February 24.