Essendon football icon Matthew Lloyd highlights the transformative impact of high-profile acquisition Ben McKay on the Bombers’ defensive lineup, citing a newfound confidence in their ranks, previously absent in recent seasons.
McKay showcased his defensive prowess in Essendon’s thrilling victory over St Kilda, tallying impressive statistics with 13 intercept possessions and nine marks.
Following his significant free agency move from North Melbourne, McKay has quickly asserted himself as a defensive force, ranking among the league’s top players for intercept possessions and marks after just three games with Essendon.
The defensive transformation was evident in Essendon’s containment of St Kilda to a mere nine goals, a rare feat considering their defensive struggles in previous seasons. Lloyd emphasizes that McKay’s arrival has provided much-needed stability to the Bombers’ backline, addressing longstanding defensive concerns.
Lloyd underscores McKay’s stellar performance and crucial role in Essendon’s recent success, highlighting his impact in securing victories for the team.
While acknowledging McKay’s standout performance, Lloyd also acknowledges the challenges faced by St Kilda, attributing some of their struggles to poor ball usage and the absence of key players like Max King.
Looking ahead, the Bombers’ defensive lineup may receive a further boost with the potential return of Jordan Ridley from a preseason quad injury, potentially bolstering their defensive capabilities for their upcoming clash against Port Adelaide on Friday night.
