Despite three goals from Aaron Edwards, the VFL Tigers went down by 14 points to Essendon at Highgate Reserve on Saturday afternoon after dropping off in the third term.
In a tight game dictated by momentum swings, the Bombers booted seven goals to the Tigers one in the third term to break the game open and set up the win.
Aaron Edwards presented well, marked strongly and made the most of his opportunities to finish with three goals. The agile forward showed his versatility by dropping back into defence when needed.
Sam Lloyd (22 disposals) was again terrific in one-on-one contests and booted two goals, as did Liam McBean, which sees him hold his position at the top of the VFL goal-kicking leader board.
Skipper Ross Young continued his strong run of form with another 33 disposals and capped off a four-quarter performance with an important late goal. James Wall also hit the scoreboard in one of his best games of the season.
Matt Dea collected 27 disposals and impressed with his rebounding from defence. Brad Helbig (24 possessions) and Matt Arnot, who had a team-high nine clearances, were both solid performers.
Daniel Jackson had 14 disposals in his return from injury but spent extended periods on the bench while Chris Knights unfortunately went off injured after having an impact in the first half.
The Tigers lifted in the final term, kicking the first three goals to get within seven points, but the Bombers were able to hold on.
ESSENDON 3.1 5.7 12.11 13.15 (93)
RICHMOND 4.2 6.5 8.9 11.13 (79)
Goals: A. Edwards 3, McBean 2, Lloyd 2, Banfield, Hampson, Young, Wall
Best: Young, Dea, Wall, Edwards, Helbig, Lloyd
