The duo was however ably supported by the midfield grunt of Jobe Watson and the tireless running of Brent Stanton. The leg speed of Jason Winderlich, Ricky Dyson and Andrew Lovett was also very important, particularly late in the game.
And what can you say about Dustin Fletcher that has not been said – he plays his 300th game for Essendon next week and he just keeps producing, yesterday taking Anthony Rocca to the cleaners. Who is to say he does not have another season in him – right now he doesn’t look like slowing down.
Ryder’s feats were extraordinary. Named to start down back he soon found himself in the ruck and he stayed there for the day, comprehensively beating Josh Fraser and Leigh Brown. Ryder’s numbers were remarkable for a big man – 16 disposals, 11 contested possessions, four inside 50s, five clearances and 13 tackles. They are numbers that would make the most seasoned midfielder walk of the ground happy with his lot.
McPhee’s return was equally stunning given he was coming off a game against the Kangaroos that he said himself, was something he wasn’t proud of and it is fair to say many fans agreed with him. But McPhee is a quality player – a best and fairest player at Essendon – and in front of just under 85,000 people he towelled up Travis Cloke and showed what an important player he is for Essendon.
McPhee also won a critical loose ball in the final minute of the game, his quick kick finding Andrew Lovett. It was a critical play in the final analysis, getting the ball into Essendon’s forward 50m and ultimately giving his side a chance to win the game.
Watson and Stanton were excellent contributors in the midfield, collecting 61 possessions between them. Watson’s clearance work was important – he racked up a team high seven while Stanton’s unquestioned motor was still purring late in the game. He breaks opponents with his running and he did it again yesterday.
Back to back wins would be a nice way to celebrate Dustin Fletcher’s 300th at the Gabba next weekend.
