Despite defeat to Collingwood on Anzac Day, there were still signs of growth amongst the Essendon side, especially for their youngsters.

For five players (Isaac Kako, Nate Caddy, Zach Reid, Jaxon Prior and Archie Roberts), this was their first ever Anzac Day clash, testing their abilities in front of a packed MCG crowd of over 92,000.

Roberts leads the way with ball in hand

On the rise, Archie Roberts continued to show composure under pressure.

The young defender/winger tied for the team-high in disposals with 25, gaining 421 metres. A level head under pressure, his rebounding efforts helped generate strong momentum for the side, especially during a dominant second term where he recorded eight disposals.

Durham battles hard at the coalface

Sam Durham continued to work tirelessly in the midfield, gathering 19 disposals and six clearances.

He also pushed forward to kick two quick goals during the second quarter, providing a spark and helping fuel the Bombers' comeback momentum.

Caddy finding his footing

Young forward Nate Caddy worked hard to impact the contest, finishing with 19 disposals and two goals.

Involved in six scoring chains, he showed promising signs with his ability to find the ball and contribute across the ground, even as forward supply dried up. He competed strongly in the air and grew into the game as it progressed.

Reid holds firm down back

An impressive 2025 campaign continued for Zach Reid.

Both he and Jordan Ridley did their best to steady a backline under siege, each finishing with nine intercept possessions. Reid also impressed in one-on-one contests, taking three contested marks. His 16 disposals — at an efficient 81.3% in wet conditions — again highlighted his composure under pressure.

Goldstein wins the ruck battle

Veteran Todd Goldstein returned to the senior side in place of the injured Sam Draper and Nick Bryan, and did not miss a beat.

He finished with 38 hit-outs and 13 disposals, more than holding his own on the big stage. His experience was vital in keeping the Bombers competitive around stoppages, even as the opposition took control in general play.