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There is no disputing it – Essendon is again the best side in the competition, bar none. The Bombers tore apart the previously unbeaten Hawks at Colonial Stadium tonight, winning by 65 points and regaining their perch on top of the ladder. Norm Smith medallist James Hird played out a full game, Coleman medallist Matty Lloyd kicked eight goals and first gamer Cory McGrath bagged his first goal on debut in a night chock-full of positives for the premiers.
Bomber skipper James Hird failed to train this afternoon at Windy Hill and looks set to miss tomorrow night's clash with Hawthorn. Speaking with the press prior to training, Essendon coach Kevin Sheedy admitted his captain faced an uphill battle to prove his fitness. ""He's going to struggle,"" Sheedy said. ""He won't train tonight and we don't like taking players in if they aren't right. But we'll give him until tomorrow afternoon and he can make the decision - he knows his body better than we do.""
Read nowWe acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woiwurrung people of the Kulin Nation as the Custodians on whose Country we are based. We acknowledge their ongoing connection to Country and pay respect to their Elders, past and present. We extend that acknowledgement and respect to all First Nations peoples throughout Australia.
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