Essendon’s Narrow Escape Overshadowed by Injury Woes as Star Ruckman Faces Lengthy Absence

The Bombers emerged victorious from a tense encounter in the West, rallying from behind to snatch a two-point win against a determined Eagles team at Optus Stadium on Good Friday.

However, the team is now facing the consequences of their comeback, with ruckman Sam Draper sustaining a leg injury just days before their Anzac Day clash against Collingwood.

Draper went down merely three minutes into the final quarter, falling to the ground on the wing without any collision, and had to be assisted off the field, struggling to put weight on his right leg.

Matthew Pavlich, commenting for Fox Footy during the incident, remarked, “He’s really having a tough time with that right leg just trying to get off the ground. That doesn’t look good at all.”

In the aftermath of the match, Bombers coach Brad Scott expressed concerns that Draper might be facing a season-ending Achilles injury, noting, “It seems to be one of those typical Achilles injuries where he felt a kick but was not touched by anyone.”

At three-quarter time, Draper was seen consulting with Scott and Essendon medical staff regarding calf soreness in his other leg, but the decision was made to keep him on the field for the remainder.

Scott described this as “an unfortunate coincidence”.

Additionally, winger Xavier Duursma was taken to hospital as a precaution after a heavy collision with ruckman Matt Flynn during a marking contest.

Essendon made an impressive comeback from a 28-point deficit in the second quarter, ultimately securing a victory with a score of 11.11 (77) to 11.9 (75).

After gaining the upper hand in clearances, the visitors fought back in the third term, evening the score before setting the stage for a thrilling final quarter.

Key forward Peter Wright played a pivotal role, tirelessly keeping the Bombers in contention with a remarkable six-goal performance.

If Draper’s Achilles is indeed ruptured, the Bombers may face the daunting prospect of losing their top two ruck options for the remainder of the season.

“The Bombers are concerned that this could result in a season-ending Achilles injury,” stated AFL.com.au reporter Cal Twomey on Nine’s Weekend Today.

“This would be devastating for both Draper and the football club, especially considering Nick Bryant, the No.2 ruckman for Essendon, suffered a season-ending knee injury last week (ruptured ACL).”

This situation may pave the way for Todd Goldstein’s return to the side as the Bombers gear up for their traditional Anzac Day clash with the Magpies.

Draper, 26, will undergo scans on Sunday.

As an unrestricted free agent, Draper faces a significant contract decision by year’s end, with interest from the Crows looking to bring him back closer to home.