Essendon VFL has fallen to Box Hill by 46 points in their final practice match before the 2024 season.

The high-scoring contest went back-and-forth throughout the first three terms, but a late flurry of goals from the Hawks secured the 21.10 (136) to 13.12 (90) result.

Boosted by the return of Dylan Shiel from injury, Essendon's midfield found a nice gear early with the chemistry of Sam Draper and Ben Hobbs on display.

Hobbs was arguably his side's best on the day, finding himself winning plenty of contested ball as the Dons stayed afloat in the early stages.

2023 draftee Archie Roberts continued his promising pre-season form, putting his left foot to good use with two impressive running goals prior to being rested for load management at half-time.

After spending periods of pre-season training as a forward, Nick Hind looked dynamic off half-back this time around, biting off some aggressive kicks in transition.

Nate Caddy provided a nice moment for the Bomber faithful after the main change, booting his first goal in club colours from a tidy set shot.

Nick Bryan lent an important hand to Draper in the ruck, getting his hands on the ball around the ground and hitting the scoreboard with an important goal on the verge of three-quarter-time.

VFL vice-skipper Jackson Hately was a strong contributor in the absence of on-ball partner Xavier O'Neill, slotting two goals and fighting hard at stoppages when a comeback looked possible for the Dons halfway through the last quarter.

Despite the margin being a slender three points at the final break, the Hawks ran out the contest better in hot conditions, outscoring the Dons by 10 goals to three in the final 30 minutes.

It was a frustrating finish for a Bombers side that gave a strong account of itself for the majority of the game, but will provide plenty to learn from heading into the season.

The Bombers look ahead to a round one clash against Brisbane at the NEC Hangar next Saturday, kicking off at 1:05pm AEDT.

ESSENDON     3.3     5.5     10.11    13.12   (90)
BOX HILL      4.3     7.7     11.8     21.10  (136)

GOALS
Roberts 2, Hately 2, Shiel, Scott, Peris, Jedwab, J. Davey, Caddy, Bryan, Hobbs, Eckersley