Matthew Leuenberger has only been at the Bombers for a short period of time, but his influence is already highly valued.

The former Lion is ranked in the top ten in the competition for hit outs but his pressure around the ground and clearance work has also been vital.

His metres gained (132) output is nearly double what he’s produced in the last two seasons.

The 27 year old is carrying the ruck responsibility largely on his own  and according to Robert Shaw – the time Leuenberger spent off the field in the last term against Carlton was influential in the final result.

“I think Essendon tired quicker than Carlton did in the last 15 minutes – then Carlton got on top in the centre bounces when Leuenberger had to have a rest,” Shaw said.

“They had to rest him to try to get him back on the ground for the last five minutes.

“In that time, Carlton’s dominance out of the midfield with three quick centre bounce clearances was significant.”

The Bombers brought in three hardened midfielders for the clash with the Blues and Shaw said each played their part.

“Crowley to Murphy was an interesting one – Murphy got going early, I thought Crowley fought back well,” Shaw said.

“I didn’t mind what Essendon did.  They brought in another layer of midfielders.

“Polkinghorne didn’t have a huge game but Crowley worked hard.  I thought Simpkin showed some signs too.”

Simpkin had 25 possessions and Crowley 21.  While Polkinghorne collected 11 disposals and kicked a goal.

Carlton led most of the key statistical measures in the first half but the Dons evened it up after half time.

“I think Essendon would have gone in at the end of the game and said that was a game that we should have won,” Shaw said.

“There would have been significant disappointment because had they got over the line … two and four (win/loss ratio) … is a really encouraging performance.

“Essendon have to win the games they can win and that was certainly a winnable game given Carlton lost Cripps out of their midfield.”