In his pre-match address to Bombers fans, chairman Paul Little continued to indicate Essendon would fight out of its crisis.
It came only days after the AFL laid charges against Essendon, coach James Hird, assistant Mark Thompson, football boss Danny Corcoran and doctor Bruce Reid for conduct unbecoming in relation to the supplements program at the club in 2011-12.
They are scheduled to face an AFL Commission hearing on August 26.
While admitting the club's errors could have repercussions, Little said the Bombers would search for the truth to be revealed.
"What I can say to you all as football followers is that we are fully aware that mistakes were made, particularly in the areas of management and governance which have now been effectively addressed," Little said.
"However, the nature of some of these allegations go way beyond what we believe is the truth, in particular with regard to the use of illegal substances.
"We cannot let these allegations go unchallenged.
"We owe a duty to our past and current players, supporters, members, sponsors and coaches to ensure that these matters are resolved equitably and in a timely manner."
Although some have speculated legal battles could draw the saga out for months, Little indicated the Bombers want to put it behind them as soon as possible.
Little also backed the individuals at the centre of the scandal.
"We will continue to do everything in our power to see that all parties are afforded justice and to ensure that the eventual outcomes are fair, reasonable and, importantly, reflect the facts, rather than the gossip, unsubstantiated allegations, and speculation and innuendo," Little said.
"The club acknowledges that James Hird, Mark Thompson, Danny Corcoran and Dr Bruce Reid are all decent people of outstanding character, each of whom has contributed positively not only to our club but to football in general.
"At all times these four individuals believed that any and all of the supplements used were compliant with the AFL's anti-doping code and ASADA and WADA regulations, as well as being in no way injurious to players.
"But again, let me be clear, not just to the Essendon faithful but to the Australian football public, there were shortcomings in internal management of the club and inadequacies in supervision of key individuals in certain areas.
"We also accept that these failings occurred at the club and there may well be repercussions."
Twitter: @AFL_CalTwomey
