Essendon coach Brad Scott has labelled his much-criticised club as “a significant work in progress” following the Bombers’ termination of a dismal 17-match losing streak on Saturday.
Essendon stunned the Melbourne Demons in the second half, securing a surprising 45-point victory during the AFL Gather Round at Adelaide Oval.
This losing streak marked the equal worst in the history of the once-esteemed club.
Archer May of the Bombers celebrates kicking a goal during the round five match. Getty
Meanwhile, Archie Roberts topped off his career-best performance of 42 disposals by adding a goal, steering Essendon towards an anticipated victory anthem.
“Archie Roberts has been outstanding for the Bombers,” remarked Jimmy Bartel on Nine’s Wide World of Sports on Sunday.
“They indicated last week in the second half against the Bulldogs that by limiting the opposition’s uncontested marks, they can genuinely compete. They achieved that this week, resulting in a tremendous victory for Essendon supporters.
The Bombers celebrate. Getty
“They have well and truly earned what I’m going to refer to as nourishment — a rather questionable term, but it seems to have found its way into footy vernacular. They received nourishment for their relentless efforts.”
This result propelled Essendon (1-4) off the foot of the ladder.
Now, Richmond remains the only team yet to claim a victory this season as they prepare to face the GWS Giants on Sunday.
Sullivan Robey of the Bombers celebrates. Getty
It had been a long 323 days since the Bombers last tasted victory.
“If you’re an Essendon supporter, savour this moment,” remarked Melbourne legend Garry Lyon on Fox Footy.
“It’s no fun seeing a team struggle through a 17-match losing streak. The game can be arduous, leading you to dark places during tough times like that.
“But today, it was all worth it. They’ve convincingly outplayed Melbourne.”
Essendon coach Brad Scott during training. Getty
Scott was notably cautious not to ride the wave of enthusiasm, shifting his focus to next weekend’s away clash against the formidable Gold Coast Suns.
“We remain very much a work in progress. I believe maintaining perspective is crucial in this sport,” Scott commented.
“I’m genuinely happy for the players to reap the rewards of their efforts, and for our supporters who’ve endured a challenging time… but we need to keep things in perspective. We haven’t achieved anything extraordinary just yet.
“There’s still a great deal of work ahead of us. Even if we had fallen short today, the direction we are heading would remain unchanged.”
In other matches on Saturday, the Sydney Swans surged to the top of the ladder with a remarkable 32-point victory over the Suns.
Defending champions, the Brisbane Lions, triumphed over North Melbourne, while Hawthorn showed their class against the Western Bulldogs.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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