Essendon list boss Adrian Dodoro insists the club was thrilled the Ben Hobbs got through to their first pick in the first round of the AFL Draft.
The Bombers nabbed the inside midfielder at pick 13 even after Port Adelaide traded up from 14 to 12.
The Power took dashing defender Josh Sinn, leaving the Dons to get their man who they had ranked inside the top 10.
“I know it’s said quite often but we certainly didn’t think he’d be there at pick 13,” he said on Sportsday.
“All the experts had him in the top six or seven, and we certainly did.
“For him to come through was terrific and he’ll really complement our midfield. He’s strong around the contest, he’s an inside bull, he uses the ball really well, he’s got a big motor.
“The good thing about him is he’s a leader, so adding to the quality of person around the club that ‘Truck’ really likes us to recruit for him.”
Dodoro added that the Bombers were intent on selecting Hobbs, even if Sinn was available at their pick.
“We liked him (Sinn), there’s no doubt, but I can categorically tell you we were taking Hobbs,” he added.
“We had Hobbs rated at seven in the draft and I think Sinn a little bit later.
“They’re both fabulous players. I think people like to make stories out of nothing, but we were delighted and rapt with the boy that we got.
“We’re very happy.”
Greater Western Victoria Rebels and Vic Country on-baller Hobbs will be joined at Tullamarine by Norwood’s Alastair Lord (pick 46) and Garrett McDonagh from Richmond’s VFL side (pick 50).