Some might say that Essendon were lucky to get over the line against Melbourne last Friday night and others may say the team set up the victory in the first half. In the Outer, gives you the opportunity to have your say and tell us what you think. Avid Essendon supporter Des Ploog, said the Bombers set-up the win by kicking long and direct to the forwards and the performance of primarily Danny Jacobs, Chris Heffernan and Adam Ramanauskas greatly attributed to getting the four-points.

“Danny Jacobs, turned the opposition back many times and launched counter attacks. Chris Heffernan is a quality player and rarely wastes the ball - not yet back to 1999/2000 form but getting there. Adam Ramanauskas made every disposal count, hurting the opposition. Sean Wellman rebounded well from defence and linked up through the mid-field,” Ploog said.

Ploog still believes the side has room for improvement, considering they have only won two out of 13 final quarters. “The team should be fit at this time of year, so they need to determine what is causing fadeout and rectify the problem. We should have a much better percentage than we have and it could prove costly. We also need to improve tactics at centre square and other stoppages - if the opposition rucks are winning then rove to them or man up on their midfielders (especially in the centre square),” Ploog said.

Essendon fan Ray Wilson thought the side was lucky to get the four points, and agrees with Ploog that the fitness of the team needs to be improved because they appear to have trouble running out the game. Karole Prince is also looking for some answers about the Bombers final quarter. “I would love someone to tell me why there is never any commitment in the last quarter. The game against Melbourne should have been a real percentage booster and yet they went to sleep again. Please guys start playing four quarters of football and keep your mind on the job for the entire match,” Prince said.

“I feel our backline could tighten up a bit more. But I am more concerned with the fading out in the last quarter it has to stop. Percentage will play a very big part in where you finish the season, if we had belted Melbourne like we should have then we would be sitting in fourth spot. So come on guys four quarters of commitment. I know it must be hard to keep your mind on the game for the whole game but other clubs do it and have a look where they are and their percentage.”

To have your say each week on the Bombers’ performance, go to the In the Outer section after every match.