Star Bomber Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti says putting a smile on fans’ faces is always his goal when he enters the field in the red and black.
The classy forward certainly did that on Saturday at the MCG in Essendon’s tough 10-point victory over fellow finals contender Sydney, putting on a show from the first bounce in an exciting return to form.
McDonald-Tipungwuti was busy early with five disposals, two important tackles and a tidy snap goal in the opening term against the Swans, setting the tone for the Bombers in the crucial clash.
He finished up with 14 disposals and eight marks in the strong performance, particularly impressing with his relentless pressure in the forward half and gut running into space.
The modest 26-year-old said he was “pretty happy” with his game and he was full of praise for his fellow forwards.
“Today I felt I was on in the first quarter and I just kept playing my role with my forward pressure and (trusted that the rewards) will come in the end,” McDonald-Tipungwuti said after the win.
“Overall, the boys in the forward line did really well. We communicated and were just keeping each other accountable and putting each other in the right spot.
“I think our game is developing as a group and hopefully we can take it further and see what we can do.”
McDonald-Tipungwuti lays a crunching tackle on Dane Rampe on Saturday. (Image: AFL Photos)
One of the most memorable moments from the game was when McDonald-Tipungwuti gathered the ball at full flight in the centre of the ground in the last term with acres of space ahead of him.
The speedster was off to the races as the passionate crowd urged him on to go all the way. And while he was unable to put it through the big sticks due to sheer exhaustion, it still got most fans on their feet.
You could argue that no player in the league commands more attention from the fans and pulls more people to a game and the edge of their seat than the dashing Bomber.
McDonald-Tipungwuti admitted there is pressure attached to being one of the most universally loved footballers in the game, but he embraces the chance to be an entertainer.
“When I had my down time and was struggling a bit with footy, I could just settle myself down and give something the fans want to see,” he said.
“For me, it’s not about getting touches, it’s going out and making people enjoy watching footy. I was happy going back to my game and bringing a smile to the fans coming in.
“It’s a lot of pressure, but it’s good that all of the fans appreciate watching you play the game and showing something they really enjoy.
“I guess I get a bit nervous, but it gives me more confidence to go and show them what they want to see.”
He said he is looking forward to the side’s next big test against North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium on Saturday as the league reaches the pointy end of the season.
“North Melbourne is a pretty good side, so for us (the focus is) just to go out, play our game and see what we can do.
“I think we’re tracking really well as a group and the boys are pretty happy with where we’re at. We’ve still got a fair bit to learn, but we’re on the right track.
“I can’t wait to play against another quality side.”
