Notes from the first half v Melbourne.

Defence

Gwilt on Hogan

Baguley on Garlett

Dea on Watts

Midfield

Z. Merrett v Vince

Forward

McDonald on Daniher

Garland on Brown

Three changes to the side saw a slight restructure to the way the side lined up.  Mitch Brown is playing forward, Michael Hartley in defence and Paddy Ambrose is the second ruckman.

The Bombers made a great start keeping the ball locked in the forward half for 92 per cent of game time in the first five minutes of the match.                                                    

Zach Merrett had five possessions and three tackles in the first five minutes.  He also kicked two first quarter goals.  Nearing half time, he was up to 18 possessions.

Essendon laid 22 tackles to 11 in the first quarter.

Melbourne won four of the first five clearances in the second quarter, resulting in two goals.

But the Bombers are winning more of the ball overall, nearing half time they had 50 more possessions than Melbourne.