Bombers focus on win, not margin

ESSENDON’S Devon Smith has dismissed talk of a percentage boost against struggling Gold Coast, saying the Bombers are just focused on a win to keep their faint finals hopes alive tonight.

The Bombers sit in 12th position on the ladder with seven wins — still two games and percentage outside the top eight.

“What I do know is we need to win to try to make finals, so they’re all important from here on,” Smith said yesterday.

“Obviously we’d like to win the remainder of all of our games but our focus is firmly on Gold Coast.”

The Suns have lost 10 consecutive matches, but Smith wasn’t interested in any talk of a percentage boost at Metricon Stadium.

“It’s very important just to win,” he said.

Smith, 25, was traded from Greater Western Sydney at the end of last season and will be a strong best and fairest contender in an impressive start to his Essendon career.

“I’m playing a different role now, but I’m playing consistent football and it helps when you’re out on the park,” Smith said.

“It’s different in the midfield. It’s a lot more taxing on the body.”

Smith played mostly as a small forward for the Giants, but has thrived on the back of extended midfield time at the Dons.

“Playing in a new role has really stimulated me and my football again,” he said.

“I’m really enjoying being at home and playing at Essendon.

“We have a very flexible group and a lot of young guys going through the midfield.

“I’m just learning about the football club and how we play, and they’re probably learning about how I play as well.”