In a nutshell
Essendon looks set to claim its first wooden spoon since 1933 unless it can beat Carlton on Saturday and pick up enough percentage to move past the 17th-placed Brisbane Lions. The Bombers lost 17 games in a row during the season to set a new club record.
What we said in the pre-season
We thought the Bombers might be able to secure an extra couple of wins than they have, which might have placed them outside the danger zone for the spoon. But then again, some thought they wouldn't win a game at all. It was always going to be difficult to predict what impact the top-up players could have, with only Matt Dea and James Kelly having a real influence of the 10 signed replacements.
What worked
For one, the Bombers navigated their way through a difficult season on the field without losing face. They lost plenty of games, but managed to play with spirit most weeks and develop players along the way. Their ability to get more game time into an exciting group of youngsters was a major positive for the club. And, to top that off, Essendon has secured the signatures of its most important banned players, ensuring they will return next season once their anti-doping suspensions end. Michael Hurley, Dyson Heppell and Cale Hooker were all must-signs and Essendon delivered. Now the last big fish left waiting to confirm his intentions is captain Jobe Watson.
What failed
Essendon continues to find it hard to score. They have been the lowest scoring side in the competition, averaging just nine goals a game, and seem to lack cohesion in the forward line. It hasn't been an issue limited to this season, though, with the forward group struggling to capitalise on forward entries in recent years. Essendon will also spend a fair chunk of its pre-season working on its accuracy after its poor goalkicking cost it a couple more wins this year.
Overall rating
C. In wins and losses it was a terrible year. But it might be looked back upon as the rebirth of Essendon.
The coach
Worsfold steered the ship beautifully in 2016. His calm and measured public persona resonated with a fan base that has been rocked for several years, and he celebrated the little wins along the way while acknowledging the Bombers couldn't accept defeat. It is difficult to rate his coaching, but he managed to keep Essendon competitive with a second-rate team. Next year, his second of a three-year contract at Essendon, will be better for analysing his strategy.
John Worsfold steered the ship beautifully in 2016. Picture: AFL Photos
The leaders
The captaincy fell to Brendon Goddard when half of Essendon's leadership group was banned for the 2016 season, and the former Saint did a great job in trying circumstances. He is unfairly maligned for his demonstrative on-field actions but is a competitor who reasoned with the unique circumstances of this year. Zach Merrett grew into a leader at the club, while youngster Joe Daniher also gained quality leadership experience with senior players missing.
MVP
Zach Merrett: The third-year midfielder elevated himself into the elite bracket of players in the competition. He has played every game, averaged 29 disposals and captained the Bombers to their round 21 win over Gold Coast, all as a 20-year-old.
Surprise packet
Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti: Few would have expected the rookie-listed player would have such an impact at senior level in his debut AFL season. The hard, attacking and powerful half-back was a revelation with his run and skill, and will hold his spot regardless of the returning Bombers from suspension.
Get excited
Darcy Parish: Parish proved why the Bombers used their pick first pick at last year's NAB AFL Draft (No.5 overall) on him with a super debut season. He has missed just two games (rested both times), averaged 21 disposals and showed his promise as a long-term midfield star of the competition. He heads into next month's NAB AFL Rising Star function as one of the deserved favourites.
Disappointment
Courtenay Dempsey: Injuries have limited Dempsey's output to just 13 games this year, but when he has been out there he has struggled to have a huge impact despite being one of Essendon's most senior players. His skill level by foot has been an issue when running the ball out of defence.
Best win
Round two: Essendon 11.14 (80) d Melbourne 10.7 (67) @ MCG
Many thought the Bombers would not win a game all season, but they got that off their back by round two when they secured a shock 13-point victory over the Demons at the MCG. Essendon led at every change and was the better team by far, with a late goal to second-gamer Parish clinching the win and sending Bombers fans into raptures.
Bombers players celebrate the win over the Demons. Picture: Sean Garnsworthy
Low point
Essendon had much bigger losses than its 37-point defeat to the Brisbane Lions in round 18, but there were few quite as disappointing. The Bombers barely showed up in a game that all knew would go a long way to deciding the wooden spoon, and the six-goal margin flattered their effort. After going winless for 14 weeks, the Bombers were extremely flat early in the contest against the 17th-placed side.
The big questions
How will the returning players fare once back in the fold?
Which of the youngsters will hold their spots in next year's best side?
Who will the Bombers choose with the No.1 draft pick?
Season in a song
The Kids Are Alright – The Who
What we say: The Bombers are out of the darkness and have brighter times ahead.
Who's done?
Retirements: Adam Cooney
Delistings: TBC
Unsigned free agents: Courtenay Dempsey, Tayte Pears
How should they approach trade and draft period?
The Bombers will field offers for their No.1 draft pick, but it would take a compelling deal to offload that prized selection. Adding a couple of top-end talented youngsters, as well as making a play for another midfielder or two through the exchange period, should see Essendon in a nice spot for 2017 and beyond.
Early call for 2017
A top-eight finish and first finals win since 2004 must be the aim.
