The inability to finish off their work to capitalise on scoring opportunities proved costly as the West Coast Eagles suffered a 50-point defeat against Essendon at Optus Stadium tonight.

Despite leading inside 50 metre count 48-46 the Eagles trailed all night and slipped 14.12 (96) to 6.10 (46).

While the Eagles struggled for connection with the final link in their attacking chain, Essendon moved inside the scoring territory with greater penetration and skill.

In all the key statistical measures the Eagles were around the mark, but decision making and skill execution errors proved costly. While West Coast had the most dangerous key forward in the game, Oscar Allen, who kicked four goals, they found it a challenge to hit targets close to goals.

Conversely the quality of the Bombers’ inside 50 metre entries was slick and purposeful and they looked dangerous when transferring the ball through the midfield.

Much of the run was generated from behind the ball through veterans Ashley McGrath, Mason Redman and Dyson Heppell while Kyle Langford was also a constant menace in the air and finished his work off with three goals.

The Eagles started with a couple of tactical moves with Tom Barrass and Josh Rotham starting forward but by midway through the opening term Barrass was back in his customary defensive role as Essendon was took strong in the air.

Rotham shared the ruck responsibilities with Bailey Williams.

While it was a disappointing night the upside was the return of bullocking midfielder Elliot Yeo who made his presence felt both through the middle and in defence. It also allowed young star Reuben Ginbey to alternate between midfield and backline roles.

Shannon Hurn was also a welcome addition to the back half, combining with Jayden Hunt and Liam Duggan to provide strong run and rebound.

Hunt had 34 possessions and distributed it at 82 percent in possibly his best individual performance for the club.         

Unfortunately, it was not enough to keep his team in game and again they found the opposition too consistent and efficient especially in the second half when the Bombers rattled on 6.7 to 2.5 to ensure they left with the points.

ESSENDON        4.1    8.5    11.6    14.12 (96)
WEST COAST     2.3    4.5    5.9      6.10 (46)

GOALS
Essendon: Langford 3, Menzie 2, Hobbs 2, Snelling 2, Stringer, Redman, Perkins, Guelfi, Draper
West Coast: Allen 4, Waterman, Petruccelle

BEST
Essendon: Redman, Merrett, McGrath, Langford, Hobbs, Heppell
West Coast: Hunt, Allen, Duggan, Hurn, Yeo, Kelly

Injuries: L Edwards (conc) replaced by G Clark in the third quarter.

Attendance: 39,269