Essendon claims first win with stunning second-half comeback
Essendon came from 25 points down to beat GWS by eight points.
The Bombers stormed back at Henson Park on Saturday, kicking the last five goals of the match to claim their first victory of 2026. Trailing by 25 points early in the third quarter, Essendon kicked the last five goals while holding GWS to just a single behind after half-time.
The Giants dominated territory with a 50-23 inside-50 advantage, but Essendon's accuracy proved the difference. The Bombers converted 26 per cent of entries into goals, while GWS managed just 10 per cent.
Midfield star Madison Prespakis led the charge alongside Maddison Gay, whose shift into the midfield helped stabilise clearances at 25-22.
- eight points
- Final margin
- 25 points
- Deficit at one point
- 26 per cent
- Essendon goal conversion
- 10 per cent
- GWS goal conversion
Why it mattersAfter winless weeks, Essendon has shown it can fight back and win under pressure, a sign the team has the resilience to compete as the season winds down.
AustraliaEssendon's breakthrough gives the AFL Women's competition a story of a team refusing to quit, providing the Bombers' supporters and their home city with genuine hope for a late-season push.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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