Essendon reach new low as three Bombers injured in Dreamtime clash

Essendon have been unable to relieve the pressure on coach Brad Scott, with the team suffering its 10th defeat of the season to a depleted Richmond side, 7.14 (56) to 10.14 (74).

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The loss now means the Bombers have officially hit rock bottom, sitting 18th on the ladder, and as of Saturday, will only have one win to their name in the last 365 days.

Coming up against a Richmond side that have been struck down by the injury bug, the Bombers lost two key players themselves early in the contest, with Sam Durham (concussion) and Matt Guelfi (hamstring) leaving the field in the first quarter. 

Captain Andrew McGrath would also be ruled out soon after in the second quarter, after suffering a broken jaw.

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But aside from a brief patch in the first quarter, the Bombers trailed for most of the game, despite strong showings from veterans Darcy Parish (40 disposals, nine clearances) and Zach Merrett (36 disposals, 10 score involvements). 

The defeat means pressure is likely to further mount on coach Brad Scott, with reports earlier in the week suggesting this stretch of fixtures would likely determine his future.

Following Richmond this week, the Bombers have fellow cellar dwellers West Coast and Carlton on their schedule in the coming weeks, with it imperative that Scott improves his side’s fortunates if he is to remain the man in charge.

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