Round 7, 2026: Anzac Day Test - Signs of Growth or Same Old Story?

Essendon heads into Anzac Day off the back of a narrow 9 point loss to Gold Coast. A result that didn’t go our way, but one that showed clear signs of growth. In this episode, we break down what worked against the Suns and where the game was lost, particularly around key moments and centre bounce damage. We dive into the evolving midfield mix, the impact of Tsatas, McGrath and Wright, and the defensive lift from our half forwards led by Durham and Day-Wicks. Then we turn our attention to Collingwood. A side that continues to grind games into arm wrestles, but is showing some vulnerability in 2026. We unpack their numbers, their reliance on Nick Daicos, and where Essendon can get the game on our terms. We also run through selection, including the inclusion of Dyson Sharp, and what that means structurally heading into one of the biggest games of the season. All roads lead to the MCG on Anzac Day. The stage is set. Can this young Essendon side take the next step? ____ Watch 'The Moment that Mattered' and listen to our Post Match First Thoughts exclusively on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/donthestat Don The Stat Website: https://www.donthestat.com/ Follow Us on Twitter and Bluesky: Jono at twitter.com/JonathanJWalsh / https://bsky.app/profile/jonathanjwalsh.bsky.social Ian at twitter.com/Kyptastic1 / https://bsky.app/profile/kyptastic.bsky.social Don The Stat Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/donthestat Follow Don The Stat on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/donthestat?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==