Essendon VFL played out a solid 60-minute practice match against Box Hill on Saturday morning, ending in a draw at 8.6 (54) apiece.

With the VFL and VFLW competitions having a league-wide bye over Gather Round, the Clubs took the opportunity to host the hit-out at the NEC Hangar, each fielding a strong number of AFL-listed players across the lines.

Opting to play four fixed 15-minute quarters, the Bombers were able to bring back key forward Peter Wright for his return from injury, with the big man slotting three goals and looking in good touch.

Often taking matchups against experienced AFL-listed defenders in Sam Frost and Jack Scrimshaw, Wright also paired nicely with VFL-listed small forward Oskar Smartt, who was among the side’s best and kicked a cracking checkside goal from the boundary line in the third term.

Kayle Gerreyn and Archer Day-Wicks got the Dons up and going with two early goals – the latter with a long-range belter from beyond the 50-metre arc.

Following a Luamon Lual major and Wright’s first from the pocket, the Bombers took a one-point lead into the main break – the margin barely deviated throughout the day with both sides trading goals frequently.

Zak Johnson’s composure and distribution from the back half provided moments of nice ball movement, while Todd Goldstein’s presence in the ruck also created good opportunity for midfielders in Jordan Busuttil and Jackson Hately to get first hands at clearances.

Jayden Laverde added experience to the last line in his second game back from injury, while youngsters such as Rhys Unwin and Vigo Visentini continue to show promising signs in their exposures at VFL level this season.

The VFL Dons fully return to action next Saturday in a televised primetime clash with Port Melbourne from ETU Stadium at 7:10pm AEST, live on 7mate in Victoria and 7plus Sport nationally.

ESSENDON    2.3   4.4   6.6   8.6  (54)
BOX HILL      2.2   4.3   6.4   8.6  (54)

GOALS
Wright 3, Gerreyn, Sellers, Day-Wicks, Lual, Smartt