Round 5, 2023
Melbourne vs Essendon
Saturday 15 April
Venue: Adelaide Oval
Attendance: 33,832
| 1st | 2nd | 3rd | Final | |
| Melbourne | 4.2 | 7.5 | 7.7 | 11.11.77 |
| Essendon | 5.4 | 9.10 | 12.13 | 15.14.104 |
Essendon win by 27 points
Goalkickers: Bayley Fritsch 2, Jake Melksham 2, Kysaiah Pickett 2, Kade Chandler 1, James Jordon 1, Alex Neal-Bullen 1, Christian Petracca 1, Jacob van Rooyen 1
Brownlow votes:
1 - Christian Petracca
Coaches votes:
1 - Christian Petracca
Milestones:
50 games
James Jordon
Statistical categories led
Biggest loss at Adelaide Oval
As part of the AFL's inaugural 'Gather Round' all matches were played in South Australia, and Melbourne was surprised by an improving Essendon. The Bombers took advantage of the injury absence of Jake Lever to score through tall forwards. After narrowly getting the best of a nine goal first quarter the Bombers pulled away to a 17 point lead at half time. Heavy rain began to fall during the break, but it didn't stop the nominal 'visitors' kicking the first three goals after the break. Melbourne outscored them from there but it was too late and their record dropped to 3-2 for the season.
Best were Oliver, Petracca and Langdon. James Jordon replaced Charlie Spargo (concussion) at half time. Angus Brayshaw was fined $1500 for tripping.
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