Defender Nick Hind has been rewarded for his best game of the season, receiving eight votes in round 16’s AFLCA MVP votes.

While he stole the limelight for kicking a stunning match-winning goal in the final minute to sink the Swans, Hind’s best contribution came with his effort across half back.

The 27-year-old was at his dashing best, collecting 25 disposals, 682 metres gained and eight score involvements.

03:56

Rd 16 | Last two mins

Enjoy the thrilling final moments between the Bombers and Swans at the MCG.

Not far behind Hind was vice-captain Zach Merrett, who produced a sensational game in the midfield.

Merrett was awarded four votes for his three-goal, 24-disposal and six-tackle game.

00:51

Rd 16 | Merrett's snap keeps Bombers in touch

Zach Merrett snags a late first-quarter goal to keep us within striking range.

Skipper Dyson Heppell earned three votes after a strong display off the backline after he registered 25 disposals and nine score involvements.

00:55

Rd 16 | Heppell stems the flow

Skipper Dyson Heppell snags this brilliant quick reply to give us our first of the afternoon.

From there, another three backmen were rewarded for their stellar games, with Mason Redman (two votes), Jake Kelly (one vote) and Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (one vote) all earning praise.

Round 16 AFLCA Votes: Essendon v Sydney

8 Chad Warner (SYD)
8 Nicholas Hind (ESS)
7 Zach Merrett (ESS)
3 Dyson Heppell (ESS)
2 Mason Redman (ESS)
1 Jake Kelly (ESS)
1 Brandon Zerk-Thatcher (ESS)