Essendon have survived a late West Coast surge to notch up an eight-point victory in a lightning-affected Marsh Community Series match.
The pre-season hitout was paused early in the second quarter when numerous lightning cells circled Mineral Resources Park in Perth, forcing a 20-minute delay following consultation with both teams.
After the match’s resumption, the Bombers put a torrid off-season behind them as they ran out 14.11 (95) to 13.9 (87) winners.
2016 number one draft pick Andrew McGrath looks primed for a breakout season playing as a full-time midfielder for the first time as he amassed 24 touches, seven clearances and six score involvements playing 83 per cent of game time.
Kyle Langford also presented strongly for John Worsfold’s side throughout the contest in a 24-possession, one goal and five-mark game.
For the 4,302 in attendance at the renovated new training home of the Eagles, watching Tim Kelly run around for the first time in his new colours would’ve been one of the highlights.
The former Cat showed his class throughout in a 27-disposal, six clearance and six inside 50 game.
Star ruckman Nic Naitanui played his first pre-season match in four years and looked an imposing figure during the contest despite playing just 51 per cent of game time.
But from an Eagles perspective, the night belonged to Josh Kennedy who was the side’s lynchpin up forward once again, kicking six goals straight as Essendon struggled to quell his influence throughout the contest.
Both sides will welcome back a host of big names for their final pre-season clashes next week.