Carlton have held off Essendon at Ikon Park on Sunday to record a third straight VFL victory.

The Blues booted four of the last five goals in the 14.15 (99) to 10.8 (68) result, handing the Dons an eighth consecutive loss this season.

The first half was tightly fought, with Essendon’s solid stoppage work creating opportunities to respond on the scoreboard and keep the contest even.

Taking a slim two-point lead into the main change, the Blues ability to dictate possession became prominent in the second half, looking to slow down the Bombers’ quick replies.

Ultimately, the Blues would blow the lead out halfway through the last quarter, kicking three goals in quick succession to reach the eventual 31-point margin.

The Dons were held in good stead throughout the game by some strong individual performances, particularly from their tall stocks around the ground.

Nick Bryan has continued his stellar run of form in the ruck, convincingly winning the hit-outs and making his presence felt as an aerial option with eight marks and a goal.

Kaine Baldwin was again solid at the back, negating Carlton’s attacks with his one-on-one strength, as well as the willingness to cut across and intercept.

Jaiden Hunter was a standout as a deep forward, kicking four goals and continually presenting to provide a dangerous option while attacking partner Pat Voss worked further up the field.

Brad Bernacki and Elijah Tsatas were the Dons’ most active through the midfield, with Tsatas’ clean hands in traffic proving an important factor early.

Alwyn Davey Jnr put in a shift with a team-high nine tackles, also providing some polish with ball in hand going forward.

Essendon will have time to reset going into the bye, next taking the field against Port Melbourne at ETU Stadium on Sunday, June 25.

CARLTON         3.4    6.6    10.10    14.15    (99)
ESSENDON    2.2    6.4      8.6       10.8    (68)  

Goals: Hunter 4, Loton 2, Bryan, Cootee, Fitzgerald, Jorgensen

Best: Bryan, Tsatas, Hunter, Baldwin, Bernacki

Images: Mallia Shots.