After a season of significant ups and downs, the Bombers finished 2018 with aplomb as they almost turned their poor start into an incredible-finals run.
Following the high-profile signings of Jake Stringer, Adam Saad and Devon Smith last season, Essendon have gone hard again at the trade table, locking in Dylan Shiel to further bolster its midfield stocks.
While the recruitment of Shiel will bring smiles to the Bomber faithful, it will be the fitness of Joe Daniehr and Orazio Fantasia which will be Essendon's saving grace.
Daniher will be missing for the opening few rounds as will key swingman, Cale Hooker which could play a huge detriment in the opening portion of the season.
A poor 2-6 start to Season 2018 all but undid the Bombers' hopes of squeezing into the top-eight, and while their last finals appearance was in 2017, their last win came in 2004.
The goal is undoubtedly finals this season, and the Bombers need to make a return to September in order to meet their lofty pre-season expectations.
OUR BEST 22- ROUND 1
MVP
After departing from the Giants, Dylan Shiel is expected to fill the gaping hole which was left by former captain, Jobe Watson, as Essendon look to expand on arguably its weakest point.
The former Giant is expected to play a huge role in leading the Bombers back to the Finals in 2019, alongside skipper Dyson Heppell.
BREAKOUT
Had an incredible end to 2018 after strong rumours linked him abroad to a move back home to South Australia.
But after working through his off-field issues, Francis had a fantastic run of games as an intercept defender.
Expect him to continue his superb form this season after a full pre-season and playing a role as the third tall alongside Michael Hurley and Cale Hooker.
UNDER THE PUMP
The mercurial forward faces an important 2019 after a year riddled by osteitis pubis.
After an incredible 2017, Daniher’s injuries let him down but also left a gaping hole in the forward line, and if the key forward can stay fit he would play a massive role for a front six which struggled last season.
With Cale Hooker out of the side through injury and James Stewart out of favour, Daniher - alongside Shaun McKernan - will be nothing short of instrumental as the Bombers' key tall when he comes back into the side.
EARLY PREDICTIONS...
1. Essendon will make the top-eight but will not win a final
2. Dylan Shiel will win the Crichton Medal in his first year at the club
3. The Bombers will struggle to get their best 22 out on the field for the first half of the season
Comments