A powerful second half from Geelong proved too much for Essendon VFL in its practice match at GMHBA Stadium on Friday with the Bombers falling 20.7 (127) to 9.14 (68).

Coming up against an experienced Cats outfit, the Dons started well and dictated play throughout different stages of the first half but often found themselves unable to cap off their good work on the scoreboard.

Goals from Jared Eckersley and dynamic young forward Oskar Smartt kept the Dons in the mix early, but the Cats took a 30-point lead into the main change thanks to more efficient kicking in front of goal.

Essendon benefitted early from the playing return of Sam Draper, who generated some promising attacks from the ruck on restricted minutes prior to being rested after half-time.

After the main break, the Bombers took the opportunity to throw the magnets around and give Vigo Visentini an uninterrupted run in the ruck after initially sharing duties with Draper in the first half.

Geelong’s experienced bodies eventually started to fire in the third term, the Bombers conceding seven goals for the quarter to trail by 60 points heading into the final change.

The Bombers ran the game out well, booting four goals in the fourth term including a nice moment for Jayden Davey, who slotted his first major in more than 900 days as he continues to progress through the VFL in his comeback from multiple knee injuries.

Sam Weideman provided a reliable target up forward for the Dons, showing a strong set of hands in aerial contests and finishing with four goals for the day in a well-rounded display.

Xavier O’Neill was arguably the Bombers’ best, leading the charge from the midfield and accumulating plenty of inside ball throughout the contest alongside Jackson Hately.

Essendon’s season officially kicks off when they take on Brisbane at the NEC Hangar on Saturday, March 23.

GEELONG    4.2     9.3     16.5     20.7  (127)
ESSENDON      1.4     3.9     5.11     9.14  (68)

GOALS
Weideman 4, Naim, Smartt, Eckersley, J. Davey, O'Neill