The Bombers led the eventual premiers by 28 points at three-quarter time, but the Nick Daicos-led Pies outscored Essendon by 13 points with seven last-quarter goals.
But the game has remained a constant in the minds of Essendon coach Brad Scott, who has seen his team struggle as injuries have plagued the Bombers, leaving them to cover gaps with players in new positions.
Essendon’s focus over the summer ahead of Scott’s second season as coach has been to improve his players’ skills – “not only in their primary role but also some secondary and tertiary roles as well” – with Martin, who has become a key member of Essendon’s midfield, training regularly as a half-back.
In certain match simulations, the fluid Martin has been used to take Essendon kick-outs and set-up from defence. Scott explained that last year’s Magpies loss sparked their search for positional versatility.
“Many people have asked me, ‘What happened at three-quarter time on Anzac Day?’ We placed ourselves in a winnable position, I believe 28 points ahead, but Jayden Laverde had been crunched and was off the ground. “I was told he couldn’t come back on,” Scott told AFL.com.au.
08:34 Apr
