A fast start saw Essendon coast to a 36-point win amidst the teeming rain in its second VFL practice match against Werribee at Highgate Reserve on Saturday.

The Bombers defied the slippery conditions in the first quarter as they racked up 16 forward entries to one and kicked four unanswered goals. The worsening weather stalled Essendon’s momentum, but a string of last quarter goals had the Bombers sailing home against the inaccurate Tigers to win 9.5 (59) to 2.11 (23).

AFL-listed Bombers Mark Baguley and Matt Leuenberger were amongst the best against Werribee. Baguley bustled hard in defence, saving an almost certain goal with a desperate dive on the stroke of three-quarter time and pushing upfield when the Bombers were on the attack.

Leuenberger’s strong attack on the ball in the ruck gave his rovers a crucial edge in conditions that otherwise denied finesse.

Midfielders Dylan Clarke and Jackson Merrett, and debutant Jamieson Sheahan also impressed, while Kieran Strachan’s employment as a key forward resulted in a third-quarter purple patch as the young tall kicked two goals.

Danny Younan and Alex Marklew also had standout moments in the first and third quarters respectively with highlight-reel goals.

Coach Dan Jordan says the conditions gave his side a chance to measure up to where they were trying to reach with their game.

“It was really, really wet all day but I thought the guys focused really hard on what we were trying to achieve,” Jordan said after the match.

“We really centred around the contest, outnumbering and just competing.”

Jordan also commended the performance of the four players who made their Essendon debuts against Werribee. Sheahan, Luke Collins, Trent Crosbie and Kalan Huntly all started their journeys on a day that Jordan said demanded commitment to the game plan.

“It was great to give those guys an opportunity to put their hand up. I thought most of them played their role reasonably well,” he said.

“Tough day to be initiated into VFL footy, but one thing that a day like today does is show the importance of structure. Gaping holes can open up if you don’t adhere to the structures you’re trying to implement.”

Essendon will face Footscray next Saturday at VU Whitten Oval from 12pm in their final practice match ahead of their round onr season-opening clash with Frankston.