After making the finals, albeit to lose in the Elimination Final, Essendon has undergone a dramatic list shuffle.
Last season’s co-captain Matthew Bate has departed along with him State defender Trent Shinners, 100-game player Matthew Firman as well as Fahey and Sikora who switched to Williamstown.
Wayne Schultz, ex North Ballarat, Port Melbourne and Bendigo, provides some experience while Josh Mellington comes off the Fremantle rookie list. Essendon’s VFL fortunes will hinge, as always, on an injury free run to its entire list and the Bombers talent running deep.
At its best Essendon will prove formidable, especially at Windy Hill, but they have to cover some big losses and the competition is also far stronger.
FAST FACTS
Coach: Hayden Skipworth (2nd year)
Captain: Ben Duscher
Affiliate: AFL stand alone
Last season record: 9-9
Last season finish: 8th
Best & fairest: Ben Duscher
Welcome: Josh Mellington (Fremantle), Aaron Heppell (Gippsland Power), Alex Hickey (Geelong Falcons), Angus Milham (Oakleigh Chargers), Wayne Schultz (Strathfieldsaye), Sam Lowrie (Sth Fremantle)
Farewell: Michael Sikora (Williamstown), Dave Fahey (Williamstown), Trent Shinners (Werribee), Matthew Firman (overseas), Matthew Bate (Norwood), Zac O'Brien (Brisbane)
Follow on twitter: @EssendonVFL
Photo: Dave Savell
Last Modified on 01/04/2014 15:18