Essendon's VFL season has come to an end after a five point loss to Footscray in the Elimination Final at Fortburn Stadium.

In a fiercely contested game, with multiple lead changes, it was the Dogs who edged in front in the final stages.

Shaun McKernan (3 goals), Daniel Younan (2) and Alex Boyse (2) impressed in front of goals, booting seven majors collectively.

Nick O’Brien was the major ball winner. He finished with 25 disposals, five marks and a goal.

The Bombers controlled most of the game, gaining an 18 point lead at half time.  But Footscray lifted in the second half, particularly in the last quarter despite going against the wind.

A couple of quick goals from the Dons brought the margin back to five points with seconds to go but it was too late. The siren sounded, putting an end to Essendon’s 2017 season.

Essendon 13.13.91

Footscray 14.12.96

Goals: McKernan 3, Boyse 2, Younan 2, Hind, O'Brien, Mutch, Morgan, Howlett, Langford

Disposals: O'Brien 25, Howlett 22, Mutch 21