Saints score 19-point win over Bombers

St Kilda were challenged, but lifted to beat a courageous Essendon by 19 points at
Etihad Stadium on Sunday and maintain their unbeaten AFL record this season.
Forward Justin Koschitzke booted four goals for the Saints, while midfielder Lenny
Hayes was outstanding with 33 touches as their side won 13.12 (90) to 10.11 (71).
A six goals to two first quarter proved the difference for the Saints, with Essendon
recovering from their sluggish start to match the competition leaders for the
remaining three quarters.
St Kilda led by 28 points at quarter-time - a margin they more or less maintained
until the final change.
The Bombers threatened several times to overrun the Saints, with forward spearhead
Matthew Lloyd coming alive in the second half to kick all three of his goals.
But while the young Bombers played out of their skins, they just lacked polish and
poise at pivotal times.
After closing to within 21 points with Lloyd's third goal early in the final term,
the Bombers' fate was sealed with two fourth quarter majors to Nick Riewoldt who
finished with three for the match.
Bombers defender Andrew Lovett was effective and gave his side plenty of run all
day, while Jobe Watson battled hard in the midfield, gathering 39 possessions.
St Kilda have now won their opening eight matches of the year and remain clear of
Geelong at the top of the ladder on percentage.
Essendon have a 4-4 win-loss record and remain in the top eight.