Firing forward line
The Bombers scored more than 100 points in a match once last season, but just nine games into this year they’ve passed that mark on five occasions. The final score of 125 against the Eagles was the Dons biggest of the year.
The efficiency that has been a feature of the Bombers forward mix this season was again on show. From 49 inside 50s, they generated 32 shots at goal for an overall efficiency rating of 65 per cent.
Contested ball
The Bombers won the contested possessions 85-52 in the first half and finished the game with a differential of +31. Dyson Heppell (13 contested possessions), Jobe Watson (13), Cale Hooker (10) and Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti (10) were the standouts.
Conor McKenna
His 19th senior game was most likely McKenna’s best with the defender gathering 17 possessions including six rebounds from the defensive 50. McKenna’s run and carry was important out of the defensive half and his ability to spot targets in the middle of the ground also opened up the play.
Run down tackles
The Dons booted 19 goals against the Eagles but perhaps the biggest roar was reserved for Josh Green’s run-down of Sam Mitchell. Green’s chase led to an Essendon goal. Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti also converted after he chased down Chris Masten. At the other end of the ground Jack Darling appeared certain to run into the open goal before Conor McKenna pressured him.
All-Australian contenders
Yes, we’re not even half way through the season, but just how many players would be in contention for the All-Australian side? Joe Daniher is on track for around 60 goals this season, while Michael Hurley is performing even better than his previous All-Australian year in 2015.
With 22 goals to his name already Orazio Fantasia would have to be in contention for one of the small forward spots, while Zach Merrett did his chances no harm with another 37 possessions against the Eagles.
