Essendon’s first quarter against Adelaide was in stark contrast to how the rest of the match played out. 

The Bombers kicked four opening quarter goals and also had control of the contested ball (35-33) and clearances (15-4). 

But the performance fell away after the first break as Adelaide ran away with the game. 

“You can complicate it but footy is a basic game and at the moment the basics of our football – winning it, how we’re disposing it, appetite to defend you name it, all areas – we’re just not consistent,” midfielder David Myers said. 

“It’s not rocket science, it’s just those basics of the game that we have to be able to execute for four quarters otherwise you get that scoreboard.” 

The match marked a return to the playing field for Myers. 

The Bombers leader has been missing from the senior side since round one because of a shoulder injury and then a knee problem.

The 26 year old has watched on as the side’s form dropped away after a bright start to the season. 

“We have been through a hard time but playing like that doesn’t make it any easier. 

“It actually makes the situation worse for everyone. 

“We all love each other and I think we just need to start showing that a bit more with the way we’re playing.” 

The Bombers travel to the Gold Coast next week to take on the Suns. 

They then return to the MCG for the final two games of the season against Richmond and Collingwood.