Essendon coach Brad Scott has labelled his much-criticised team as “a significant work in progress” following the Bombers’ dramatic end to a dismal 17-match losing streak on Saturday.
In an unexpected turn of events, the Bombers surged past the Melbourne Demons in the second half, clinching a convincing 45-point victory at Adelaide Oval during the AFL Gather Round.
This losing streak tied for the worst in the club’s storied history.

Archer May of the Bombers celebrates after scoring a goal during the round five match. Getty
Archie Roberts also contributed to the victory with a goal to complement his remarkable tally of 42 disposals, earning Essendon a long-awaited opportunity to sing their victory song.
“Archie Roberts has been outstanding for the Bombers lately,” noted Jimmy Bartel on Nine’s Wide World of Sports on Sunday.
“They demonstrated in the second half against the Bulldogs last week that by closing down the opposition’s uncontested marks, they could actually compete, and they carried that performance into this week. It was an excellent result for Essendon supporters.”

The Bombers celebrate their victory. Getty
“They truly earned — I’ll use the updated football term, ‘nourishment’ — which is not the best word but seems to have made its way into footy speak. They received nourishment for all their dedication.”
This win propelled Essendon (1-4) off the bottom of the ladder.
Richmond, who face the GWS Giants on Sunday, are now the sole winless team in the league.

Sullivan Robey of the Bombers celebrates post-match victory. Getty
It’s been 323 days since the Bombers last celebrated a win.
“If you’re an Essendon supporter, take a moment to savour this,” said former Melbourne star Garry Lyon on Fox Footy.
“No one enjoys seeing a team endure a 17-match losing stretch. The game can be quite unforgiving, and it can lead to some very dark periods during such a slump.
“But today makes it all worthwhile. They delivered a resounding defeat to Melbourne.”

Essendon coach Brad Scott at training. Getty
Predictably, Scott is urging caution as he shifts focus to next week’s challenge against the formidable Gold Coast Suns.
“We remain a considerable work in progress. It’s crucial to maintain perspective in this game,” Scott stated.
“I’m genuinely delighted for the players to reap the rewards and for our supporters who have endured a tough period… but maintaining perspective is key. It’s not as if we’ve achieved something extraordinary.
“We still have a significant amount of work ahead of us. Even if today’s result had been different, our upward trajectory would still be intact.”
In other matches on Saturday, the Sydney Swans claimed pole position on the ladder with an impressive 32-point victory over the Suns, while the reigning champions, Brisbane Lions, comfortably defeated North Melbourne, and Hawthorn showcased their prowess against the Western Bulldogs.
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