The Bombers have gone down by nine points in a thriller against Sydney at the SCG.
Thanks to an opportunistic goal by Leroy Jetta in the dying minutes Essendon got to within a point, but a late goal to Adam Goodes - who had been well held for most of the day - proved the difference.
Assistant coach Adrian Hickmott said it was a hard loss to take after being within striking distance all game.
""It was a hard fought game and to go down by that margin was very disappointing,"" Hickmott said.
""I thought Paddy Ryder really stood up when David Hille went down injured and Leroy Jetta was very exciting with his tackling and energy which really makes the team lift. Alywn Davey had some hard ball gets and the pressure those two (Jetta and Davey) put on, really helps the team
""Hocking was on Goodes and played a good game. He attacked the ball hard and always has eyes for the ball. He is getting better and better as a young player and as he matures as a man.""
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The Bombers trailed at quarter time but quickly made up ground and scores were tied at halftime and three quarter time as the clubs went goal for goal.
However, the Bombers were behind the eight ball going into the final quarter with Davd Hille and Angus Monfires (hamstring injuries) unable to take part while Jake Melksham (ankle) was limited in his output.
""Losing those two made it hard and Melksham was off for about five minutes but came back on,"" Hickmott said.
""In that sort of weather when you lose players you just have to ask the other players to dig deep and play on.""
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""When Winderlich got the ball in the wet he did a lot with it which was impressive
