HOW THEY WENT:

West Coast had no trouble covering Mark LeCras's absence, booting five of the first six goals of the first match to defeat Essendon by 21 points. Chris Masten picked up 12 disposals and Ashton Hams collected 10 and added two goals to boot. Gerrick Weedon showed he is ready to add to his solitary AFL game with a devastating performance in attack.

They also comfortably accounted for Fremantle in the second game, conceding just one goal on the way to a 20-point win. Masten was again prolific, as was Shannon Hurn, Dean Cox, and Luke Shuey.

Essendon were average tonight. James Hird has made a concerted effort to improve his team's strength and fitness, and what better way to test the results than a 34-degree day in Perth? Unfortunately, they were totally outmuscled and outrun by the Eagles in the first game. Freo gave them the same treatment but, to be fair, the second match is skewed in favour of the rested team.

Unsurprisingly, most of Essendon's ball-winners played in the back half. Cale Hooker and Michael Hibberd made their presence felt, while Leroy Jetta racked up 14 touches on the ball against the Dockers.

Fremantle were excellent as they rolled Essendon by six goals, and while they ran out of steam against West Coast in the next match, there was a lot to like about their play. In our first look at the Dockers under Ross Lyon, their ability to hunt in packs and lock the ball in their attacking half would have brought a smile to their fans' faces.

Hayden Ballantyne played two ripping games, and new recruit Lachie Neale slotted in well. Nat Fyfe was also prolific, and looks set to consolidate last year's breakout season.

WE'RE A BIT EXCITED ABOUT:

Gerrick Weedon (WC). The forward has "highlights" written all over him. His forward defensive pressure is admirable and he comfortably nailed two set shots as well. It won't be long before the comparisons with Cyril Rioli begin.

Lachie Neale (Frem). Picked at 58 in the national draft, the 18-year-old shows a natural ability to read the game and a keen eye for the goals, booting two past the Bombers. Ross Lyon has reportedly nicknamed him ‘Cowboy,' after the St Kilda legend of the same name.

Corey Dell'olio (Ess). In a forward-line desperate for more avenues to goal, there is definitely a spot for a mature-aged goalsneak. Dell'olio, 22, showed a flair for finding space inside attacking 50 and finished with a goal in each game.

I'D BE WORRIED IF I WAS:

Jack Anthony (Frem). He led hard and found the right spots, but he hardly won a clean possession all night. His only shot at goal missed everything. He didn't play against the Eagles.

An Essendon supporter. It would be unfair to single out a particular Bomber tonight, the team was generally limp and disinterested. Of course, it is only the pre-season, but I'm sure the Bombers' fans would have liked to see a bit more endeavour from their players. The only fight they showed was in a brief melee that arose out of a high tackle.

Matt de Boer (Frem). Copped a heavy knock in the opening minutes of the ‘Mini-Derby' and was subbed off. It was probably precautionary, but his shoulder will be angry at him in the morning.

Tom Swift's stylist. It won't be easy to explain that ponytail.

RULES, SCHMULES:

There was confusion in the Fremantle-Essendon match when Adam McPhee won a 50m penalty for encroachment. The umpire was supposed to give McPhee the choice of the full 50m, or a shot from outside the arc for nine points, but neglected to do so. McPhee's kick went through for a goal, which the umpire signalled a super goal, even though he had been inside the arc when he shot. After a brief conferral, the extra three points were withdrawn.

Fortunately for the umpires, they were able to redeem themselves when Essendon conceded another 50m penalty only a minute later.

PLAY OF THE DAY:

There wasn't much joy for the Bombers this evening, but some strong work in the forward pocket from 18-year-old Nick O'Brien gave him a small opening to dribble the ball goalward. The party trick was completed when Stewart Crameri soccered home from close range.

FOX FOOTY VERDICT:

The telecast was smooth and the commentary insightful. Their heavily Triple J inspired soundtrack suggests they are targeting a more indie audience. There was one hiccup - a period of lost reception - which may not even have been their fault, but it was terribly timed as it came just after they spent a good two minutes praising their own High-Definition coverage.

WHAT'S NEXT:

West Coast v Port Adelaide (Saturday 4.10pm, Mandurah)

Fremantle v Richmond (Sunday, 5.10pm, Patersons Stadium)

Essendon v St Kilda (Saturday 7pm, Wangaratta)