Essendon were outlasted by Collingwood in their VFLW second semi-final at Victoria Park on Saturday, going down by four points.

The Bombers looked slick in several passages throughout a tough and physical contest, but found themselves unable to crack a strong Pies defence on their home deck.

The two sides traded scoreboard blows throughout, with Collingwood’s decisive goal coming at the eight-minute mark of the final term.

Despite gaining the territory advantage in a tense final 10 minutes, the Dons were ultimately beaten by the clock as they pressed for a last-ditch attacking effort.

Mia-Rae Clifford was a strong presence for the Dons going forward, booting their two majors on the day.

Courtney Ugle provided a safe pair of hands across half-back, also generating important dash as the Dons looked to surge home in the dying minutes.

Jaimee-Lee Morrow produced her best game of the season in the ruck, tallying six clearances to go along with her 30 hit-outs.

The Bombers are equipped with a second chance after the loss and will face Port Melbourne this weekend for a coveted spot in the grand final.

COLLINGWOOD    0.1  2.3   2.4   3.4  (22) 
ESSENDON            1.3   1.3   2.4   2.6  (18)

Goals: Clifford 2

Best: Morrow, Ryan, Chaston, Ugle, Dicker, Sutton

Image: Nigel Barrie Photography.