The answer is simple for Essendon but not so easy to execute.
They need to start winning more contested possessions between the arcs so that they can spend more time in their attacking 50m.
The Last Post is played by the bugler at the MCG.AFL Photos via Getty Images
As it stands, they have been playing this game in their back half, and the game is probably beyond their reach.
Collingwood leads the inside 50 count 40 to 22. They also lead the centre clearances 12 to four.
This is indicative of the Magpies’ midfield mix – they are rolling Nick Daicos, Scott Pendlebury, Jordan De Goey, Beau McCreery and Angus Anderson through the centre square.
They are dominating the ruck contests as well. Peter Wright is not in the same class as Darcy Cameron and his sidekick Oscar Steene. Sadly, when the Bombers do get forward, they can’t hold it in.