Essendon fans were treated to their first look at off-season recruits Jake Stringer, Devon Smith and Adam Saad.
Hundreds of fans were present at The Hangar as the ‘reds’ took on the ‘greens’ in the first full intra-club for 2018.
Stringer put on a prominent display through the midfield and forward line, using his big body to his advantage at the stoppages and contributing on the scoreboard, including a booming kick from 55m after a handball from Joe Daniher.
Daniher himself was flying high in a similar fashion to his 2017 Mark of the Year and almost got his hands on multiple hangers throughout the game.
In a wet contest following quarter time, Zach Merrett and Devon Smith showed their elite hands and class transitioning from the midfield to forward in tough weather.
Fans were able to see their first glimpse of Saad running off the half-back line, which will prove to be an exciting combination with speedster Conor McKenna, both who were taking on the game repeatedly from the backline.
Following the announcement of his elevation to the leadership group, Orazio Fantasia spent additional time in the midfield highlighting his class, speed and exceptional ability to move through traffic on the wing.
Third-year midfielder Darcy Parish showcased his impressive pre-season and bigger body frame, imposing himself in the game across the midfield and at the contest.
Andrew McGrath lined up predominantly in the midfield for the first time, often matched up on Zach Merrett as a challenging opponent, however continuing to showcase his usual composure with ball in hand.
Michael Hurley left the field early after receiving a knock to his wrist following off-season surgery and did not take any further part in the match.
Hurley briefly spoke to the media at the conclusion of the intra-club match, confident that he had avoided series damage.
"I had surgery at the end of last year so it was just on that site. It's a little bit swollen but if it was a home and away game, I would've kept playing," Hurley said.
"I wouldn't think there's a break in there. I've broken both of them so I know what that feels like.
The full replay of the intra-club match is available quarter by quarter on BomberTV.