The Roos got an early jump with three of the first four goals, which ultimately helped dictate the final result with Essendon forced to chase tail for most of the contest.
Gritting their teeth after quarter-time, the Dons won both the second and third terms to have their noses in front at the last change, but North’s strengths came to the fore in the final 30 minutes.
After conceding five of the first six goals in the final term, even a run of momentum in the final minutes proved too little, too late for the Bombers.
Despite good contest work and ability to generate opportunities (winning in clearances and inside 50’s), Essendon often found themselves outdone in transition, struggling to negate North’s quick ball movement through the corridor.
Matt Guelfi, Angus Clarke and Nik Cox all got through their return games well in a positive sign – Guelfi hit the scoreboard and provided his usual pressure, Cox pushed forward to register a couple of shots on goal and Clarke was one of the better rebounders off half back on the day.
Xavier O’Neill (31 disposals) was outstanding in the middle of the park, while Vigo Visentini (45 hitouts, 16 disposals and a goal) continues to show rapid signs of development since taking on the No.1 ruck mantle with Todd Goldstein’s elevation to the seniors.
With Lewis Hayes managed, Tyler Sellers battled manfully in his defensive post and Matt Foley (29 disposals) produced his best game of the season to date.
Small forward Oskar Smartt provided one of the highlights of the day with a terrific leaping mark and goal in the third term, bringing the solid Windy Hill crowd to their feet.
Kayle Gerreyn keeps growing week-to-week as a key forward, this time slotting three goals and presenting a dangerous option both in the air and at ground level.
Essendon get another opportunity at Windy Hill next Saturday when they face Sydney, hoping to square the season ledger at 3-3.
ESSENDON 1.3 4.5 7.10 10.13 (73)
KANGAROOS 4.3 6.6 7.7 12.11 (83)
GOALS
Gerreyn 3, Hately, Unwin, Eckersley, Lual, Guelfi, Smartt, Visentini
BEST
O’Neill, Foley, Sellers, Visentini, Johnson
