“It was good to be back today. I have missed four weeks so I was keen to get out there and make the most of it,” Johnson said after the match. “I wanted to have an impact and make a strong in put for the team. I got through the game without any problems and that is what I wanted.”
Johnson’s work in and under packs gave Essendon first use of the ball. He combined well with David Hille at stoppages to get things moving for the Bombers. Hille also had a big influence on the game. He dominated the hit-outs, finishing with 26.
Johnson had good support from James Hird in the centre. Hird was best on ground yet again and his impact proved telling at crucial stages of the match. Along with Johnson, Hird also collected 23 possessions – 17 kicks, six handballs and four marks.
After surging out to a 41-point lead early in the final quarter, Essendon looked to have determined the final result. However, Sydney had other ideas and to their credit they continued to apply pressure and attack forward. The Swans added four goals within five minutes to get within striking distance.
“We got eight goals up and we looked like we were running away with it. In the end we came away with the four points, but we probably should have won by a bit more. Sydney fought back really well,” Johnson said.
The 10-point win is Essendon’s fourth consecutive victory and depending on the weekend’s results should put them in the top six. It is encouraging signs for Essendon after starting the season with two convincing defeats and sitting in 16th position. The team’s next challenge is the Western Bulldogs next Friday night at The Dome.
