Overview

• Essendon edged North Melbourne 9.11 (65) to 9.8 (62) after relinquishing a 26-point lead, holding firm in a tense final quarter.
• Harrison Jones suffered a dislocated ankle, with coach Brad Scott confirming he will be out long-term following further assessments.
• Jordan Ridley exited the match with a fresh hamstring injury, and Jade Gresham was sidelined late due to adductor tightness, both facing multi-week absences.
• North Melbourne debutant Finnbar Maley missed a late shot that could have secured their first win in six matches.
• Essendon, already managing season-ending injuries to key players, will test their depth as they prepare to host Sydney next week.