The Essendon Bombers finished the season on a high when they recorded their biggest win of the season, defeating a disappointing Carlton by 24 points at the MCG.
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Led by yet another brilliant game by budding midfield star Zach Merrett and a five-goal virtuoso performance from Joe Daniher the Bombers controlled most of the game, and finished the season with two wins from their last three fixtures.
More importantly with excellent support from youngsters such as Kyle Langford, Jayden Laverde, and Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti who kicked four goals, the Bombers left their fans with great hope for the future and a fresh start from a horrendous four years.
Amazingly Carlton finished with 15 more inside 50s but it was the ease with which Essendon moved the ball that would have pleased coach John Worsfold and displeased Carlton coach Brendon Bolton.
The Blues failed to apply pressure all day and too many times the Bombers found targets far too easy. Credit to Essendon though as they moved the ball brilliantly all day.
James Kelly showed once again why he should probably go around again another season and fellow top up Matt Dea showed again that he deserves a contract.
The highlight though was some of the goals from full forward Joe Daniher who kicked two goals from beyond 50 including one from the edge of the centre square.
For the Blues, it was a poor end to a promising season and a complete opposite to last week’s gritty win over Melbourne.
Patrick Cripps, Kade Simpson and Bryce Gibbs tried hard all day but they had little support.
While the Blues showed plenty of promise this season, the fact they lost nine of their last ten games to finish the season would be of some concern.
Final scores
Essendon 15.13.103
Carlton 10.19.79
The Roar’s AFL MVP votes
3. Zach Merrett (Ess) – it wasn’t just his 34 disposals but more the way he used them. His kicking continually found targets and set up many scoring plays.
2. Joe Daniher (Ess) – Showed today what a star he could become. Excellent movement for such a big guy and not only was his goal kicking good but he field kicking continually hit targets as well.
1. Matt Dea (Ess) – Could have given it to a few players here, and he butchered a few kicks late in the game but was good all day across half back. Still hard to believe the Tigers cut this guy last year.
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