Essendon’s blockbuster fixture with Collingwood on Anzac Day is undoubtedly, and repeatedly, the highlight of the home and away season.
This year’s edition was a cracker, with the sides playing out a classic in front of 92,241 passionate fans at the MCG.
It narrowly went Collingwood’s way on that occasion with the Bombers falling just four points short in the seesawing clash.
After conceding seven of the first nine goals to fall behind by 33 points late in the second term, the Dons quickly worked their way back into the contest with five of the next six goals, including three to star forward Joe Daniher.
The teams traded blows throughout the second half, but Essendon couldn’t get its head in front as the Magpies held on in somewhat controversial circumstances.
Daniher starred with 16 disposals, four contested marks and four goals, while Jake Stringer (16 disposals, 14 contested possessions, six score involvements and two goals) and Dylan Shiel (34 disposals, nine inside 50s and seven clearances) also impressed for the Bombers.
It was similarly tight when the sides met again in round 23 this year as Collingwood prevailed by 11 points in an entertaining tussle before both teams entered their ultimately unsuccessful finals campaigns.
The Bombers will be keen to get one back on their fierce rival next year and a 10th Anzac Day win would be a massive boost early in the season as the side pushes for success.
