IT'S THE loss still burning with Essendon fans as they begin a long off-season.
Round eight's defeat against arch-enemy Carlton – one of only two Blues wins in a wretched season – left the Bombers' campaign precariously placed at two wins and six losses.
NOWHERE TO HIDE Fans deliver scathing verdict on Blues
It hurt more when Essendon missed the finals by a single game.
The 13-point loss was cited more than any other as the moment to forget by Bomber fans giving their season verdict in an AFL.com.au end-of-season survey.
Blues besiege Essendon's Brendon Goddard, who retired at the end of the season. Picture: AFL Photos
Coach John Worsfold has rebuilt his support with fans, returning to an 89 per cent approval rating after plunging to 24 per cent in a survey taken near the lowest point of the Bombers' season, just before the Carlton defeat.
Traded-in midfielder Devon Smith has been acknowledged by his new supporter base as one of the recruits of the year, with 80 per cent rating him Essendon's player of the season.
Joe Daniher was clearly hampered in the seven games he managed in a season ruined by osteitis pubis, and was rated the team's biggest disappointment.
Here are the full survey results and a selection of Essendon fans' views of the season.
What was the moment you'll remember?
Aaron Francis and his amazing mark. Not only highlighted a great individual comeback story, but also how exciting he can be.
- Caspar McLeod, Dubai UAE
Beating Sydney, always a tough proposition. Michael Hurley shut down Buddy Franklin.
- Jason Hughes, Perth WA
Devon Smith's goal of the year contender in round 17 against Gold Coast.
- Jackson Smythe, East Malvern Vic
The first quarter against West Coast at Optus Stadium. Haven't seen a Bomber Blitz like that in years!
- Terry Mead, Brisbane Qld
Devon Smith (centre) established himself as one of the year's best recruits. Picture: AFL Photos
What was the moment you'd rather forget?
The Anzac Day debacle. Just not competitive on an important day.
- Tom Booth, Sydney NSW
Watching Joe Daniher hobble at half-pace, fighting to play on.
- Sean Kelson, Bayswater Vic
The Carlton loss. It showed just how low a point we'd got to. Never looked like beating a side that was cemented to the foot of the table.
- Shannon Altorjay, Gladesville NSW
The less said about the Carlton game the better.
- Andy Melville, Melton Vic
Bombers fans' season rating
5.4/10
Read more
A WASTED YEAR Essendon season review
THE WASH-UP More season reviews
