In the corresponding game in 2023, the Bombers fell in to win by a kick against a gallant Kangaroos outfit, and coming into this contest, you could feel that there was a sense that the Bombers needed to stamp their authority on the game early to snuff out a potential North Melbourne win.
And that didn’t occur – not initially, anyway.
The first half was an arm wrestle, with North seeming to rectify some of the issues that have plagued their game over the first nine games of the year, and it was Essendon making the more unforced errors. Still, it felt as though it was only a matter of time before they reared their ugly head for the Kangaroos, and when they did, the Bombers capitalised.
In a strong third quarter, Essendon used a 12-minute blast to establish a seven-goal lead, and it was all over.
In terms of standout performers, we probably have to look at some lesser lights. Zach Merrett had Liam Shiels for company, which reduced his impact, with players like Ben McKay, Aidan Corr, and Matt Guelfi stepping into the spotlight.
A fair bit to unpack in this one and it’s not all great for Essendon, and it is not all bad for North Melbourne. Let’s jump in.
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