One quarter of football can make all the difference and Essendon found that out the hard way today. After leading for the first three quarters of the game, the Bombers fell alseep at the wheel in the final quarter and were swamped by the Crows who ran out 16-point winners.
 
The Bombers held an eight-point lead at the final change but the Crows piled on six goals to Essendon's two in the final quarter to celebrate Tyson Edwards' 300th game in style. It was a disappointing finish by the Bombers who had shown themselves capable of finishing off games in the early part of the season.
 
Essendon assistant coach, Alan Richardson, said it was Adelaide’s accuracy in front of goals and their ability to run and carry that sealed the Crows the win.
 
“We failed to run as well as they did in the second half. I’d say that was across the field, I wouldn’t blame any particular area,” he said.
 
“They just out worked us in the second half, they shut down our run and were able to maintain it themselves.
 
“This is a disappointing result but teams that have missed out on success are motivated by wanting to fix the things that weren’t working.
 
“If we think this side is the type of fabric we think they are, they will come out next game and do something about it. That will be the group’s motivation going forward.”
 
The week off for the split round couldn’t come at a better time for the Bombers’ who are nursing a number of minor injuries to players including Jason Winderlich, Dustin Fletcher and Michael Hurley.
 
“I think there are a few of the guys that are looking a little bit tired especially some of the boys who have injuries,” Richardson said.
 
“It’s a chance for those who might be carrying a few niggles to get them right before we take on Melbourne.”
 
Whilst Richardson was disappointed with his sides second half fade out, he highlighted the performances of youngster Tayte Pears and the return to form of Scott Lucas.
 
“Young Tayte Pears down back played really well. Given the way the ball was coming into Adelaide’s forward 50 and their accuracy in front of goal he did a really good job also Jobe Watson and Brent Stanton were pretty good today,” he said.
 
“Scott Lucas coming back into the team and kicking four goals was a huge positive for him and the team too.”

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