But Solomon wasn’t content with simply playing a negating role. He collected 14 possessions himself and got to a number of other marking contests to assist his fellow defenders. Essendon coach Kevin Sheedy was full of praise for Solomon post-match.
""He has really held our defence together over the past month – he worked very hard for us tonight,"" Sheedy said. ""He has known all week and prepared all week for Tredrea.""
ANOTHER star performer for the Bombers was youngster Brent Stanton who will be in line for a Rising Star nomination following his 17-possession performance.
Stanton was particularly good when the game tightened up in the second half, winning plenty of the ball and using his adundant pace effectively.
""We were really pleased with Brent as we have been with another youngster in Ricky Dyson - they have both been in and out of the team and played about nine games. They are two players we are hoping to shape into long-term midfielders for the club,"" Sheedy said.
One of Tredrea’s goals came courtesy of a very soft relayed free-kick paid against Mark Bolton, making Solomon’s performance even better. Bomber fans can hear Dean Solomon on Bomber Radio on sport 927 from 8pm tonight.
