We are looking back on all 12 wins from 2017, from our emotional breakthrough victory over Hawthorn to our crucial defeat of Fremantle to reach the finals for the first time since 2014. Enjoy all of the goals and celebrations from every win and revisit the best of the Bombers from this year.

Rd 23 – Essendon 16.11 (107) d Fremantle 14.8 (92)

Essendon needed to win their final home and away match to progress to the finals for the first time since 2014, and there were plenty of heart flutters throughout the day.

The first came when Cale Hooker was withdrawn after the pre-game warm-up, but club stalwart Heath Hocking more than played his part in the result.

When Fremantle got within eight points in the final term there was plenty of reason to worry, but Hocking stemmed the Dockers’ momentum with a crucial second goal midway through the term to set the Bombers on their way to the finals.

Zach Merrett was simply remarkable with a complete performance of 31 disposals and four goals, while Brendon Goddard’s experience shone through as he collected 32 disposals and 15 marks.