Just two weeks after out-pressuring St Kilda and running rampant under the roof at Marvel Stadium, Ben Rutten’s troops produced the same result against Sydney, albeit in a different way.
This time, they had fewer tackles (48-60) and fewer inside 50s (49-57), but in the end, were too strong in the final term when running over the top of the visitors.
The Bombers looked to hold onto the ball, winning the disposal count and recording some 66 more handballs than the Swans.
Sydney’s 90 handballs were 35 less than their season average, suggesting the Bombers got their hands on it first in close and were quick to close down the Swans' options around the footy.
That’s backed up by the contested possession numbers, Essendon winning that count 125-117, while they also won the clearance count 38-30.
Essendon’s forward woes - aside from Peter Wright – in 2022 have been well documented, but Rutten found a better way to use his assets on Saturday.
Wright, Jake Stringer and Harrison Jones kicked five between them, but the club’s 10 other goals came from midfielders or defenders. Their high press saw them go at 55.1 per cent efficiency inside 50, almost nine per cent higher than their season average and six more than Sydney on the day.
Sydney’s inaccuracy (12.14) and the Bombers’ impressiveness in front of goal (15.5) were certainly key factors, but Essendon gave themselves a chance and capitalised with the door open.
Thanks to TopSport.
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