Essendon have turned around a first quarter deficit to storm all over the Roos, posting a comfortable first round victory. It was a fast paced and exciting game which had many players blowing hard by half-time.
Superior fitness and ball usage helped the Dons put the game beyond doubt by three quarter time. The game seriously lacked defensive pressure and was more reminiscent of 'circle work' than an actual game. Both sides need to lift substantially in this area to have any hope of mixing it with the league's best.