Essendon fan favorite Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti is being lauded for an “incredible” profession forward of his farewell sport on Friday night time.
McDonald-Tipungwuti will play his 133rd AFL sport when he runs out in opposition to Collingwood, after making a comeback this 12 months from retirement.
But now he says it is time to stop for good.
Bombers coach Brad Scott mentioned the 30-year-old ahead loved a uncommon reference to followers.
“I said to the playing group that of all the great champions who have come through the Essendon Football Club, it’s actually hard to think of someone who has made such an impression,” Scott advised reporters on Thursday.
“On our supporter base and on our club on so many different levels.
“It’s a celebration for ‘Walla’.”
“The turnaround from the place he was to the place he’s now has been unbelievable.
“But by his own admission next year is just a bridge too far for him, both physically and mentally.”
Born within the Tiwi Islands, McDonald-Tipungwuti moved to Melbourne aged 17 when unable to talk, learn or write English.
The goalsneak performed for Gippsland Power within the U18 competitors and performed reserves for the Bombers earlier than they rookie listed him in late 2015.
McDonald-Tipungwuti made his AFL debut in 2016 and was Essendon’s main goalkicker in 2020.
He retired in May final 12 months earlier than altering his thoughts in November.
McDonald-Tipungwuti’s farewell comes after the Bombers crashed out of finals reckoning with a 126-point capitulation to GWS final begin.
Scott mentioned the huge loss had been intensively reviewed.
“We got obliterated around the ball,” he mentioned.
“A 40-plus contested possession differential hasn’t been a hallmark of our season.
“We defended actually poorly and we have been as poor offensively as we have been all season.
“You get those three things wrong it’s going to be a pretty tough day and it proved to be that.”
The Bombers are set to be with out sore trio Sam Draper, Jake Stringer and Matt Guelfi whereas key ahead Peter Wright additionally missed match-eve coaching.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
