Essendon Coach James Hird praised the performance of Jayden Laverde in the side’s 32-point loss to GWS.

The 19 year old is in his first season after being selected with the 20^th overall pick in last year’s National Draft. 

The former Western Jet has been playing across half forward and against the Giants he gathered 18 possessions, laid three tackles and took five marks.

“I thought Jayden Laverde was very good today,” Hird said.

“He’s getting better every week.  He’s still got some things to learn but it’s his fifth or sixth game in his career and he’s doing a job for us.”

Former Giant Jonathan Giles also drew praise from the Bombers Coach.

In just his second game for his new club, Giles gathered 17 disposals including 15 contested possessions.

He also had 11 clearances including seven centre clearances.

“I thought Jonathan Giles competed well,” Hird said.

“He might have lost the hitouts but 15 contested possessions was terrific around the stoppages for us.”

The Bombers won the centre clearances (15-6) and the clearances around the ground (34-29).