Essendon key forward Joe Daniher wasn't just mouthing platitudes when he admitted to being surprised at hearing his name called out as the winner of the Anzac Medal for best afield in the 18-point win over Collingwood.
Bombers key forward Michael Hurley would have been a deserving winner. Midfielders Zach Merrett and Dyson Heppell were also excellent, as was exciting youngster Orazio Fantasia.
But there was no denying that many of the game's key moments belonged to the 23-year-old Daniher, whose three goals included a massive effort from well inside the centre square in the third quarter and another long-range effort in the final term which iced the 15.10 (100) to 11.16 (82) victory.
"It was my first Anzac Day win so it feels like it's been a long time coming," said the son of former Sydney and Essendon star Anthony Daniher.
"It is a special day on the calendar and something you look forward to.
"It's always a great feeling playing on the MCG and doing what I wanted to do as a kid.
"I've always dreamt of playing for the Essendon football club and getting that opportunity every week is something I'm not taking for granted."
Coach John Worsfold lauded Daniher's developing partnership with backman-turned-forward Cale Hooker, who also chipped in with three goals on Tuesday.
"Joe is an improving talent, there's no doubt about that," said Worsfold.
"I said it a fair bit last year, that he is a developing key forward.
"He's achieved a lot already for his age but he's still developing and learning the game and growing.
"But he's working hard and that's the thing we that we are looking for."
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