Essendon VFL fell to Sydney in a 100-65 loss on Saturday afternoon.

Ultimately, it was a poor start which halted the Dons’ chances - Sydney booted the opening seven goals to burst out of the blocks and establish what would prove to be a match-winning margin.

The Bombers chipped away during the second term and managed to gather some momentum kicking with a strong breeze but struggled to break within five goals of a Swans side that were continually able to reply.

Rhys Unwin, Riley Leedham, Ryan Brodie and Jordan Busuttil all converted to give the Dons a glimmer in a quarter which finished with plenty of spotfires, as tensions ran high heading into the half-time break.

Sydney responded better after the change, booting three goals to the away side's one and setting themselves up well for a third straight win.

Essendon still ran the game out well, winning the final quarter thanks to Tyler Sellers' two late majors after moving forward.

Spending most of his time on-ball, Unwin produced his most complete performance at VFL level to date this season - finishing with 24 disposals and five clearances, the youngster's elite evasiveness.

Zak Johnson finished with 21 disposals, while Kayle Gerreyn was busy in defence with 18 of his own and seven marks.

Jackson Hately was arguably the best of the VFL-listed Dons, racking up 27 touches and nine clearances in the middle of the park.

The Dons next take on Geelong at GMHBA Stadium this Saturday.

SYDNEY    7.3   10.5   13.9   15.10  (100)
ESSENDON      0.3   4.6   5.7   9.11  (65)

GOALS
Sellers 2, Leedham 2, Brodie 2, Unwin, Eckersley, Busuttil

BEST
Unwin, Hately, Gerreyn, Johnson, Davey