SEN host Dwayne Russell is extremely optimistic about Essendon heading into the 2022 season.
Russell has declared the Bombers, under senior coach Ben Rutten, can win the premiership this year “if the planets align”.
In Rutten’s first season as sole head coach, Essendon jumped from 13th in 2020 to eighth in 2021, before bowing out in Week 1 of the finals to eventual Grand Finalists the Western Bulldogs.
Prolific pair Zach Merrett and Darcy Parish were dominant through the midfield, earning selection in the 2021 All-Australian team, while Jake Stringer was electrifying in a dual midfield-forward role.
Russell was asked via a text message on SEN’s Dwayne’s World how optimistic he was about the Bombers entering 2022.
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“Essendon can win the flag,” he declared.
“If you’re talking about optimism for winning the flag, I reckon Essendon has got the most to be optimistic about this season.
“I think if the planets align, then they can win the flag.”
Russell was also asked about Carlton’s hopes of making the finals and challenging for the premiership, as they embark on a new era under coach Michael Voss.
An eight-win season in 2021 saw the Blues miss the finals once again which led to the sacking of former coach David Teague.
Harry McKay and Sam Walsh enjoyed All-Australian seasons but a significant lift across the board is required.
“I don’t think Carlton can win the flag, but I think they can make the eight,” Russell said.
“If they get everything right, who knows, they might actually make the eight and do some damage in the finals.”
The last time Carlton played finals was in 2013.