Dons destroy Crows

Ferocious ... Courtenay Dempsey wraps up Rory Sloane in the opening half at AAMI Stadium. Source: DAVID MARIUZ / AAP

Essendon has put a forgettable off-season behind them to claim a resounding 35-point victory over Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.

The Bombers were under siege in the opening term - trailing by as many as 25 points - before recovering to post seven of eight goals and take a stranglehold on the match.

Essendon ran out winners 18.9.117 to 11.16.82 and kick-start their season in the best possible way. 

Ben Howlett starred for the visitors with a career-best haul of four goals while Alwyn Davey booted three and played a pivotal role in turning the tide towards the red and black late in the first half.

Brownlow medalist Jobe Watson accumulated 34 possessions and could well find himself among the votes once more.

Matthew Wright led the Crows with 24 touches while Taylor Walker kicked three goals in what was largely a disappointing night out for the home side.

Full report shortly.

Leading FOX FOOTY SuperCoach scorers:

Essendon: Howlett (164) Dempsey (124) Watson (121) Stanton (117) Hocking (93)

Adelaide: Jacobs (102) Wright (102) Douglas (91) Thompson (91) Walker (91)

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