Dean Solomon will miss season 2002 after it was confirmed late this afternoon that he has a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament. It is devastating blow for the Bombers who are just eight days away from their season opener against Geelong. Solomon damaged the knee while changing direction in pursuit of a loose ball in this afternoon's VFL practice match against Williamstwon. He will undergo surgery as soon as is practically possible.

They might have won the match but it was a very disappointing day for the Essendon Football Club. The Bombers defeated Williamstown by 36-points in the VFL practice match but lost one of it stars along the way. The loss of Solomon and the trading of Damien Hardwick means the Bombers defence will be minus two of its hardest competitors of the past two seasons. It could also see the Bombers push Chris Heffernan into defence this season. The back six could now look something like: Mark Johnson, Dustin Fletcher, Danny Jacobs, Sean Wellman, Aaron Henneman and Heffernan.

Essendon will need to pick itself up over the next week as it prepares to face Geelong. It should be remembered Essendon had an outstanding 1999 season when it was minus captain James Hird - hopefully it can cover for Solomon.

On a brighter note, Matthew Lloyd came through this afternoon's match in good shape - kicking a couple of goals and getting plenty of the football. Chris Heffernan and Danny Jacobs were other star performers.