ESSENDON has secured its most sought-after signature with electric small forward Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti recommitting for three more seasons.
After being heavily chased by the Western Bulldogs, the 26-year-old will remain at the Bombers until at least the end of 2022.
It is a boost for the Bombers on the eve of finals with McDonald-Tipungwuti's sparkling form in the past month a major factor in their return to September action.
McDonald-Tipungwuti wins it!
— AFL (@AFL) July 13, 2019
With just seconds left, Walla was the @Gatorade Game-Changer! #AFLDonsNorth pic.twitter.com/RWpNhvWXPa
"I am really enjoying playing football for this club and I can't wait to continue my journey with the Bombers," McDonald-Tipungwuti said.
"I'm thankful to the club and my teammates for the opportunities I've had so far, as well as the Essendon fans for their support along the years too.
"I just want to continue to work hard and play my role to help this group achieve the success that we're all after over the next few years."
GOALSNEAKS WANTED Blues on the hunt for small forwards to complement talls
McDonald-Tipungwuti joins Mason Redman (2021), Darcy Parish (2021), Dylan Clarke (2021) and Sam Draper (2023) among the Bombers' re-signings in recent weeks.
"Walla (McDonald-Tipungwuti) has become an integral part of our football club," Bombers list boss Adrian Dodoro said.
"He is highly regarded within our four walls for his commitment to the group and clearly our supporters love him too.
"He works incredibly hard to play his role for the club. Not only does he provide that exciting speed and flair in our forward line, but he constantly wants to improve and challenge himself."
Key Bombers remaining out of contract at season's end include Aaron Francis, Mitch Brown and Matt Guelfi.