1) Caldwell castigates Neale

It’s no easy feat stopping a Brownlow medallist who’s averaging 31.1 disposals per game.

However, young midfielder Jye Caldwell had no trouble in bettering his more experienced opponent.

In an attacking run-with role, Caldwell limited Neale to 21 disposals, which was the star Lions' lowest tally of the season. While having 26 disposals of his own and kicking a crucial match-winning goal.

2) Laverde limits Lion

Defender Jayden Laverde was tasked with stopping Brisbane’s key forward Joe Daniher.

Daniher has been in decent form considering he’s kicked 26 goals in his 11 games so far this season, but the Dons defender was up for the challenger.

Laverde limited the Lions’ talisman to one goal, blanketing the key forward to achieve a comfortable one-on-one victory.

3) Dons double Lions

Inside 50s are important. Marks inside 50 are vital.

Given the Bombers’ need to take their chances against a potent Brisbane outifit, they did just that.

Essendon recorded 18 marks inside 50, double that of Brisbane’s which was nine – giving the Dons clear ascendency in having the most amount of chances in front of goals.

4) Shiel the clearance king

Dylan Shiel once again showed his importance in providing Essendon’s midfield essential forward drive.

Shiel had a game-high eight clearances in a dominant stoppage display, continuing his form as one of Essendon’s best set-piece specialists.

5) Hind’s rebound record

After a slow start to 2022, Nick Hind’s return to his near All-Australian form last year has been a big positive in the second half of the season.

Hind was at his dashing best against the Lions, recording a career-high eight rebound 50s, showing his importance in Essendon’s transition ball movement.