Pinned to the boundary line in the forward fifty on the MCC members wing, Colyer assessed his options.
In the past three weeks Colyer has shown an ability to not just be quick of foot, but also quick of mind. He proved it again against Carlton on Saturday night.
Here, the 19-year-old, with poise, skill, and a little dose of luck, realised his only option was to have a shot for goal. There were no teammates in board, and Blues defenders were surging closer and closer with every millisecond.
He made the right decision, slotting a brilliant goal under pressure to bring the Bombers within one point of the Blues.
Earlier, Eddie Betts showcased his excellent work rate and a dash of brilliance.
Carlton's dynamic small forward marked a clearing kick outside attacking 50, dished off to Mitch Robinson and took off.
Chris Judd fought for Robinson's long ball in the goal square, shot a handball to Betts as he streaked past the pack and he finished the play with a superb snap off his right boot.
Betts had a night to remember and his fifth goal in the third term was an absolute standout.
With three Bombers corralling him near the point post, Betts baulked one way, slipped over, regained his feet, sold a dummy, turned back to goal and threaded a right-foot snap that had to be seen to be believed.
It was an Essendon home game but, happily for Eddie, he was able to celebrate his brilliant goal in a pocket of adoring Carlton fans at the city end of the ground.
