Despite a resounding victory over Brisbane last weekend, the Essendon selectors may still spring a couple of surprises for this week’s Dreamtime at the G match against Richmond. Youngster Tom Hislop impressed with an excellent game off half back for Bendigo while Jay Nash produced an outstanding half of football coming off an extended period on the sidelines with a foot injury.

Nash collected 25 possessions in a half of football playing in the midfield. It was an excellent return given he had not been able to get on the park this season because of a troublesome tendon injury in his foot.

""He was the biggest positive out of the weekend – there is no doubt about that. He played very well and won a lot of the football. He got tired but that was to be expected given the limited preparation,"" Essendon assistant coach Gary O’Donnell said.

""He really surprised us with what he did and his use of the ball was exceptional. He is a very penetrating kick and that makes him a very effective midfielder. I don’t think he is quite ready yet but it was an excellent first up effort.""

Hislop played for the Bombers against the Indigenous All Stars during the pre-season and he looked very much at home. A midfielder by trade, Hislop’s attack on the football has impressed all at the Club and his opportunity at senior level could be just around the corner.