Essendon's first hitout against opposition has ended in a 21-point loss to Carlton at Ikon Park on Thursday.

The Bombers led at various stages in the first half, but were overrun in the third term to fall to a 11.8 (74) to 14.11 (95) defeat.

Triallist Alec Waterman was one of six fresh faces for Essendon, kicking a match-high four goals to press a strong case to earn the final spot on the club's list in a commanding performance in attack.

Playing as a deep forward, the former Eagle complemented fellow marking options Harrison Jones (two goals) and Peter Wright (two goals) in a new-look forward line.

Nik Cox was the pick of the Bombers' youngsters, showcasing plenty of run on a wing and also looking comfortable while drifting to either end of the field to impact.

The No.8 pick was rewarded for his efforts with a final-quarter goal.

Fellow top-10 draftee Archie Perkins also made an impact at various stages across half-forward, with a classy sidestep to evade an opponent in the first term an indicator of his potential.

Former Giant Jye Caldwell found plenty of the ball in an eye-catching performance in midfield, linking up with Darcy Parish, who was a standout with a full game as a midfielder.

Nick Hind was important with his run and carry and composure with the footy throughout the first half, playing alongside captain Dyson Heppell at half-back.

Emerging ruckman Sam Draper shared the majority of the ruck load in the absence of Andrew Phillips, impressing with his speed, aerial ability and toughness.

A rolled ankle for Aaron Francis was the Bombers' only injury concern, with the defender limping from the field in the third term and failing to return to the action.

Th 23-year-old later ran straight lines on the boundary in a promising sign.

The Bombers featured 27 players, with Michael Hurley, Andrew McGrath, Jake Stringer and David Zaharakis among the absentees.

Their final pre-season hitout will come against Geelong at GMHBA Stadium in the AAMI Community Series, with the match to begin at 7:10pm on Saturday next week.

Ticketing info for the clash with the Cats will be released on Friday.

MATCH SUMMARY:

ESSENDON 3.1 5.7 7.8 11.8 (74)
CARLTON 3.3 6.4 12.8 14.11 (95)

GOALS:

Essendon: Waterman 4, Wright 2, Jones 2, McDonald-Tipungwuti, Ham, Cox
Carlton: Dow 2, Fisher 2, McKay 2, Pittonet 2, Cripps, Cuningham, Martin, Murphy, Newnes, Williams

- with AFL.com.au