Essendon’s most obvious improvement this season has been via Sam Durham, who has become a dynamic, match-shifting midfielder.
He was vital in the third quarter when the Eagles threatened to gain the lead and the Bombers were searching for a spark. Durham won two centre clearances immediately after the Eagles had kicked goals and also won a key ground ball in the third quarter that led to Jake Stringer kicking his fifth goal.
Sam Durham in action for the BombersCredit: AFL Photos via Getty Images
His efforts were against the tide as Zach Merrett, although good, was dealing with a tag, while Jayden Hunt was also restricting Andy McGrath. Durham is becoming the star Essendon has been searching for in recent seasons to support Merrett when he is tagged.
He was also part of the chain of handballs and throws that led to Caldwell kicking a game sealing goal as the Eagles drew close and then finished the game with a goal and a career high 29 disposals.
Reliable Stringer at his bestJake Stringer had the chance to kick six goals for the first time since he was at the Bulldogs in 2015. His set shot fell short, but it was the only blight on an otherwise excellent game from the veteran forward who has now kicked 29 goals for the season.
It was not the mercurial Stringer on display. He did all the basics well, finding space inside the forward 50 and, for the most part, kicked accurately. His fifth goal was vital as it stretched the lead beyond 10 points when the Eagles were closing.
He played within his limitations and is an obvious reason for the Bombers’ improvement in 2024. He also had good support from Nate Caddy (a late inclusion for Todd Goldstein), who was impressive in his second match, kicking two goals and taking a big mark in the third quarter.
Ryan flying while Eagles welcome back Oscar AllenLiam Ryan was outstanding for the Eagles moving into the midfield in Tim Kelly and Harley Reid’s absence. He won three centre clearances, with his pace out the front of the stoppages causing Essendon problems and providing Elliott Yeo with a teammate running in support.
Liam Ryan of the Eagles.Credit: AFL Photos via Getty Images
Ryan didn’t stop there however, using his pace to harass the Bombers’ midfielders while his leap has not left him as he continued to take marks and finished with a career high 19 touches.
It gives the Eagles another string to their bow as Ryan has quick feet and knows how to find space on a stoppage’s periphery. Oscar Allen’s return was also a good sight for Adam Simpson’s sore eyes. The key forward was fumbly early as he struggled to find his touch but he showed his class in the third quarter and he finished with nine marks and 10 score involvements.
Unfortunately he kicked 2.4 for the match but he will improve quickly. The Eagles look much better with him up one end and Tom Barrass, who took nine intercept marks at the other end.
