Essendon’s first practice match of 2026 is in the books and so are our First Thoughts.

Normally exclusive to our Patreon subscribers, we’ve made this pre-season edition public so you can hear how we break down games immediately after the siren.

In this episode:

Negatives

• Another slow start. Jumped again early
• Forward defensive habits still inconsistent
• Ball use (improved as the game wore on)
• The concern around Jordan Ridley’s calf setback

Positives

• Strong corridor defence even when under pressure
• Emerging roles: Duursma and Roberts look like real positional shifts
• Midfield contest work
• Sharp hands and ground ball wins from the next wave
• Darcy Parish looking fit and back to his best

We take it with a grain of salt, it’s February, after all but there were clear themes worth noting.

No Jack Kirby Medal votes for practice matches, but the structure, habits and system clues are already showing.

If you enjoy this format, our First Thoughts episodes drop after every single game for Patreon members throughout the season.

Stay Safe & Go Dons. 🔴⚫

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Jono / Ian