Damian Cupido wants to play senior football at Essendon – that was the message sent loud and clear at this morning’s intra-club practice match at La Trobe University. Cupido was superb up forward and kicked three goals in the first quarter before spending some time across half back late in the match and looking equally as comfortable. But Cupido wasn’t the only Bomber to impress.

Matthew Lloyd also looked very sharp. Full back Sam Hunt had his hands full as Lloyd moved freely around the forward line and booted five goals. The most pleasing aspect of Lloyd’s performance was his marking. He led strongly and took a number of one-grab marks. His hand – minus strapping – showing no effects from last season’s tendon injury.

Bombers captain James Hird was another to impress but he was kept honest by Adam Ramanaukas who was asked to follow him around for the day. Hird was rested for most of the second half as was Lloyd and Paul Barnard. Other more seasoned players to perform well included Mark Bolton, Jason Johnson and Mark Johnson.

Shane Harvey was also very good, particularly in the second half. He kicked three excellent goals and also spent quite a bit of time in the midfield.

A number of younger players impressed, among them were Jason Laycock and Jobe Watson. Laycock took a number of impressive contested marks while Watson showed he has good hands and is smart around the ball. Essendon coach Kevin Sheedy thought both performed well. “They could both play senior football if they continue to improve. I thought they did okay today. They still have a way to go but it was a positive start,” Sheedy said. “Jobe is a different shape to his father – a bit taller – so he could play a number of positions.”

A couple of Essendon’s rookies also showed some excellent form. Ken Hall was outstanding, kicking one superb goal, and looking far more at home at AFL level than he did last season. Ben Haynes was another to impress, getting plenty of it and on most occasions using it effectively.

Sheedy said it had been a good solid hit-out for the club with the pre-season competition just two weeks away. ""We want to do well in that competition and we will be selecting a side that will be competitive but at the same time give some younger players the chance to show what they can do,"" Sheedy said.

Among the players given this morning off were Dean Solomon, David Hille, Dean Rioli and Mark Mercuri. Cory and Toby McGrath were in Darwin for the Aboriginal All Stars game.