On a difficult day for the Bombers, former Essendon champion Matthew Lloyd says the efforts of Shaun Edwards were encouraging.

Edwards ended the match with 13 disposals and a goal but it was his creativity that was most pleasing.

“In a tough day for forwards I thought his energy to keep trying to make something happen,” Lloyd said. 

“He got caught a couple of times, but it was great to see him take the game on.”

An intelligent low pass from Edwards set up Courtenay Dempsey for the Bombers first goal of the game. 

The former Giant has played seven games this season. 

He’s kicked eight goals and averages three score involvements per game. 

Another young player also left an impression on Lloyd. 

Jayden Laverde ended the match with 20 possessions, eight marks and four tackles. 

“I think Jayden’s going to be a big finals player in the future because he’s so tough,” Lloyd said.

“He can win the ball in the air, he can win it at ground level and he loves the fierce contest. 

“The Bombers can take a big positive out of his game.”