Pears gather 24 disposals and 8 marks across half back using his strong marking ability and poise out of defence to set up the Bombers attack moving forward.
Hardingham collected 22 possessions and 8 marks with his decision making out of the back half setting up a number of forays forward.
Essendon VFL coach Hayden Skipworth said the pair had been excellent in the past few weeks and would likely see some AFL game time in the second half of the season.
“Unfortunately for them they have been with us most of the year but throughout the week they have been driving standards with the young boys and then on game day their leadership is great,” Skipworth said.
“The way they keep performing at a high level is a real testament to their character so they have been involved, their attitude has been fantastic and they do everything we ask them.”
“There is no doubt they will be used in the back end of the year in the AFL and they are knocking on the door at the moment.”
David Hille played his first match for a month after returning from a personal commitment overseas.
Hille’s experience shone through as he dominated in the ruck collecting 16 disposals and sealing his return with a goal from 40 metres out.
“It is not only his big body but his leadership, the hit outs he wins and marks around the ground,” Skipworth said.
“The boys certainly grow when he is in the team, he leads by example, leads with his voice and hopefully his body holds up and I have no doubt he is like Tayte and Hardy in terms of senior selection.”
“They are all putting pressure on for spots which is healthy.”
