ESSENDON veteran Brendon Goddard has spoken about his costly kick-in error in the closing minute of Friday night's epic clash with Sydney, saying he "hung onto the ball too long waiting for something to open up".
With 28 seconds remaining and the Bombers leading by five points after a Lance Franklin long-range miss, Goddard played on from the kick-in and an attentive Tom Papley smothered his effort, forcing a stoppage deep in the pocket.
Swans defender Dane Rampe charged through the stoppage and his hurried snap landed in the arms of forward Gary Rohan, who outmuscled Bomber Martin Gleeson in the square and kicked a goal after the siren for a one-point win.
Goddard explained his kick-in clanger on Monday night.
"I didn't know how long was left but in the front of my mind was about getting yardage and (kicking it) as long and wide as possible, hence the kick to myself," Goddard told Channel Nine.
"In hindsight, I preferably just kick it from the square and not take the risk of playing on.
"But the biggest mistake I did make was I hung onto the ball too long waiting for something to open up late, which generally I like to do and maintain possession."
The Bombers led the Swans by 19 points with less than five minutes remaining, and looked destined to claim their seventh win of the season and remain in the top eight.
Meanwhile, Goddard expressed his desire to line up again next year and extend his career into a 16th season.
"I've got a trigger clause so if I trigger that this year then I trigger a contract for next year," Goddard said.
"If there's a case like Jimmy Bartel and Geelong where the club doesn't see me as part of their future – and near future being next year – then we'll come to a decision, but right now I've got a games clause in my contract.
"I think I'm warranting a contract for next year – I think my form backs it up."
Goddard looks set to trigger the games-played clause, which is believed to be 16 or 17 matches.
The 32-year-old has appeared in all 13 matches so far this year.
Now in his fifth season at Essendon, Goddard has built a reputation over his 302-game career for his on-field passion and ability to provide stability in defence and the midfield.
He made headlines at half-time against Greater Western Sydney in round 11 – coincidentally his 300th game – after relieving some frustration by knocking a bowl of pretzels off the table in the rooms.
