Essendon suffered another heavy defeat on Sunday night, but interim coach Dean Solomon made one thing clear after the match—he won’t be blaming Zach Merrett for the Bombers’ latest setback.
Meanwhile, Brisbane coach Chris Fagan remained tight-lipped over the future of premiership star Zac Bailey as speculation around his contract continues to intensify.
Merrett endured one of the quietest games of his decorated AFL career during Essendon’s 90-point loss to Brisbane at the Gabba.
The former Bombers captain finished with just 11 disposals as Brisbane’s midfield, led by Lachie Neale, overwhelmed Essendon from the opening bounce. The loss extended the Bombers’ losing streak and left the club still searching for positives in a difficult season.
Despite the criticism that followed, Solomon refused to single out his star midfielder.
“I’ll protect Zach,” Solomon said after the match.
“He’s been huge for me. He’s been huge for this football club.”
Solomon said one poor performance should not overshadow Merrett’s influence throughout the season, praising the veteran’s leadership during one of the toughest periods in Essendon’s recent history.
Merrett has carried a heavy workload throughout 2026.
Although his numbers dipped against the Lions, the six-time Crichton Medallist has continued to be one of Essendon’s most consistent performers, averaging close to 28 disposals a game while often being asked to play different roles under Solomon.
While Essendon was left searching for answers, Brisbane had a different focus.
The Lions’ fifth consecutive win further strengthened their premiership credentials, but post-match attention quickly turned to Zac Bailey’s future.
The All-Australian forward continues to be linked with a lucrative offer from Adelaide reportedly worth around $10 million over seven years, although Brisbane remains hopeful it can retain one of its biggest stars.
When asked for an update after the win, Fagan wasn’t giving anything away.
“No news,” Fagan said.
The veteran coach declined to elaborate further, refusing to be drawn into ongoing contract speculation while Brisbane continues its push for a third consecutive premiership.
Bailey has become one of the AFL’s most sought-after players after another outstanding campaign.
The dynamic forward has developed into a genuine match-winner capable of impacting games through the midfield and inside 50, making him a priority signing for Brisbane despite rival interest.
For Essendon, however, the immediate concern remains far more pressing.
The Bombers have now endured another heavy defeat, and while Solomon defended Merrett, he admitted the club is still well short of where it needs to be.
The interim coach has repeatedly urged patience as the Bombers continue their rebuild, insisting players like Merrett remain central to that process despite the disappointing results.
Sunday night highlighted the contrasting fortunes of the two clubs.
Brisbane is chasing another premiership.
Essendon is still searching for a way back.
