Essendon champion Scott Lucas has praised the performances of the Bombers young players following the side’s win over Geelong.

After dominating the opening half, the Dons held off a fast-finishing Geelong to win by 17 points.

Joe Daniher led the way with a best on ground performance that included five goals.

Fellow 23 year old James Stewart was also influential with his three goals and 21 year old Orazio Fantasia also kicked three from his 18 disposals.

The Bombers top picks in the last two national drafts, Darcy Parish and Andrew McGrath, were assured throughout the match. Parish collected 23 possessions and laid six tackles in the midfield, while McGrath won or halved several key one-on-one battles.

Zach Merrett continued his outstanding start to the season with 33 disposals and 12 tackles.

“I thought the young players really stood up and showed great leadership in that game,” Lucas said.

“That’s what you want, they’re the future of the Club and they were able to step up.

“You’re getting a core group of players that are at the Club that can play for a lot of years together.”

After a bright start last week against the Dockers, the Dons were again fast out of the blocks kicking six goals to one to take a 27 point lead into the first break against the Cats.

“It was a fantastic start by the boys and so often we see if you can get off to a good start, the momentum shifts in the game work in your favour and then you’ll get a run at the end,” Lucas said. 

“Geelong actually scored more goals after quarter time but they (Essendon) took the lead early and were able to hold onto it.”

The Cats won the clearances (47-30) and contested possession (151-131) but it was the Dons pressure on the ball carrier that was telling.

At half time the Bombers led the tackle count 52-13 and by game’s end the differential was +41 the Bombers way. 

“It was close to the most important aspect of the game,” Lucas said.

“Geelong was dominant in the clearances and contested ball, yet it was the pressure the boys applied that was able to get the ball back and they were able to get the ball inside 50 and score relatively easy.

“The speed in the forward line was critical with Geelong not having a quick backline and the boys were able to exploit that really well.”

The Cats kicked six goals in the last quarter, but the Dons were able to boot three of their own to ensure they held on for the win.

For the fourth time this season the Bombers booted more than 100 points, with all six forwards (Daniher 5, Stewart 3, Fantasia 3, McDonald-Tipungwuti 3, Green 2 and Hooker 1) contributing.

“Different avenues to goal is critical, it doesn’t allow the backline to lay off and help one another due to the unpredictability,” Lucas said.

“To get such an even spread of goal kickers amongst the forwards was very important. 

“James Stewart made a very good debut in the red and black – he kicked the three goals and looked dangerous.

“Then the small forwards with their pressure and also their offensive threat was very good.”