As 2014 draws to a close essendonfc.com.au rewinds the clock to take a look back on some of the highlights from the season.
We count down some of the key moments from the 2014 season that had all red and black fans excited.
Rise of young stars
There was plenty to be excited about for the future during the season with the promising improvement shown from young Dons Joe Daniher, Patrick Ambrose and Zach Merrett.
The promising trio headline a number of developing players to have taken to the field in the red and black during the 2014 season with Marty Gleeson and Jason Ashby showcasing their ability as various stages.
Having lost Scott Gumbleton and Stewart Crameri the recruitment of Patrick Ambrose from the club’s VFL side was a shock selection in the rookie draft.
Ambrose shone in his first season on an AFL list, playing 16 matches and providing an important defensive pressure in the forward 50.
The 23-year-old has cemented a position as the first choice third tall option to support Joe Daniher and Jake Carlisle.
Daniher and Merrett both received Rising Star nominations throughout the season and showed plenty to have most thinking they will become consistent AFL footballers.
In just his second season at the elite level Daniher played 21 matches finishing with 28 goals.
It was his elimination final performance against North Melbourne that proved the most encouraging of the season.
On a disappointing night for the club and in the biggest game of the season he stepped up to boot a career high four goals and provide an important target up forward.
Merrett also stood up in the club’s elimination final showing the pair have the ability to deal with the pressure and nerves of finals football.
In just his first season at AFL level Merrett was among the most impressive debutants in the league during 2014, finishing with 20 matches of senior football.
His tackling pressure and tenacity around the football paired with class by hand or foot make him an exciting future prospect for the Bombers midfield brigade.
