Essendon's VFL side started their 2023 campaign with a bang in a big win over the Giants and the NEC Hangar on Sunday.

The Bombers boasted a number of AFL listed players with Ben Hobbs, Nick Hind and Kaine Baldwin taking to the field. Whilst young 2022 drafted players Lewis Hayes and Anthony Munkara played their first game for the club.

After an injury hit pre-season, Jake Stringer was back and gathered 22 disposals and kicked a goal in an important step in his return to the top level.

Coach Brad Scott has taken the long-term view with a number of the injuries to Essendon players over summer, with the club deciding to play Stringer at VFL level after his hamstring injury.

Nick Hind gathered 42 disposals in the VFL as well, while young midfielder Ben Hobbs collected 36 disposals and kicked two goals.

Quinton Narkle also showed his class in his first game in the red and black finishing with 18 disposals and 3 goals.

ESSENDON        5.2     11.4     15.8     18.11     (119)
GWS                   0.5     1.7       5.8       5.9        (39)

GOALS
Essendon: Voss 5, Narkle 3, Hobbs 2, Bernacki, Brown, Cootee, Hotchkin, Jorgensen, Laguda, Lynch, Stringer

BEST
Essendon: Hind, Hobbs, Rasinac, Voss, Narkle, Montgomerie