Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Dean Solomon remains upbeat about his interim role at the Essendon Bombers despite another heavy defeat and a brutal run of results ahead of Saturday’s trip to face the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba.
The former Essendon premiership player has yet to win in five matches since replacing Brad Scott in May, with the Bombers sitting last at 1-15 after losing 28 of their past 29 games.
The pressure around Essendon’s rebuild comes during a wider AFL period of club scrutiny, including Richmond’s injury crisis and Ben Serpell’s high-performance exit, as struggling teams face hard calls late in the season.
Solomon Stays Positive Amid Heavy Losses
Solomon has not yet told Essendon president Andrew Welsh whether he will apply for the full-time coaching role. His case has become harder after last Sunday’s 67-point loss to St Kilda.
"It's a tough challenge, but it's the second time I've fulfilled the interim coaching role," said Solomon, who was also interim Gold Coast Suns coach in 2017 after Rodney Eade was sacked.
"If it's not a challenge, it's not worth it. I've always thought that.
"I've actually loved every moment of this, and this is where people get to work on trying to find solutions and look to the future.
"It's about what can we do and who wants to come along for the ride.
"I've actually really enjoyed it.
Bombers Brace For Reigning Premiers
Essendon now travel to face the reigning premiers Brisbane Lions, who beat them by 64 points at Marvel Stadium in round eight.
Solomon is taking some belief from last season’s Gabba meeting, when an injury-hit Essendon side pushed Brisbane to 18 points. Official fixtures and ladder details are available through the Australian Football League.
"We get to go on the road against the best in the comp and compare ourselves," Solomon said.
"Last year we went up there, a very similar situation, undermanned, and did quite well."
James Hird is expected to be interviewed by Essendon’s coaching panel, while Hayden Skipworth, James Kelly, Corey Enright and Jaymie Graham are also likely candidates.
John Longmire, who left the Sydney Swans after 2024, has also been linked with the rebuild.
