Stringer sparks Essendon to hard-fought victory

Jake Stringer has shown just why Essendon can ill-afford to lose him, playing a starring fourth-quarter role as the Dons overcame a gallant Kangaroos side.

Stringer, who is currently out of contract, kicked three of his four goals in the final quarter as Essendon ran out 13. 14. (92) to 11. 8. (74) winners at Metricon Stadium.

The 27-year-old has been in talks with the club over a new deal, with the two sides close to an agreement on a three-year deal, per The Age.

In the midst of comments surrounding just how much he should be paid on his next deal by Essendon, Stringer explained why he has been able to put together one of his most consistent stretches over the last month.

“I’m just enjoying my footy at the moment,” he told Fox Footy.

“I’m enjoying it with these young boys and I’m just glad to keep winning. It makes it a bit easier when you get told you’re coming up here and leaving the kids behind, so I’m just happy to come up here and get the win.

“It’s obviously hard [leaving the family behind in Melbourne]. We got told at like 9am and I’ve obviously got three kids so didn’t really get much of a goodbye.

“It’s hard but it is what it is, we’re pretty fortunate to be up here so there’s no complaining.”

Stringer’s four goals came with 17 disposals and five clearances and he was ably assisted up forward by Peter Wright, who added three goals, 20 possessions and seven marks.

With North Melbourne ball-magnet Ben Cunnington absent, the Bombers were able to get on top in the clearance battle, winning it 40-29, including 28-13 at stoppages.

Midfield duo Zach Merrett (39 disposals) and Darcy Parish (34 disposals) were dominant again, with the pair combining for 17 of Essendon’s 40 clearances.

The win moves Essendon up to seventh spot on the ladder, with a crucial match against the GWS Giants on deck in Round 19.

For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!