Essendon players look dejected after a loss to Port Adelaide in round 24, 2026. Picture: Getty Images

ESSENDON interim coach Dean Solomon is confident the Bombers are "on the right path" after ending the season with another loss.

Nate Caddy kicked six goals but the Bombers fell to a 10-point defeat to Port Adelaide at Marvel Stadium on Sunday.

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Sunday's result left wooden spooner Essendon with a 2-21 record for the year, worse than even the 2016 'top-ups' season which generated three wins.

The Bombers also won only two games in the 1933 VFL season, though that was in a shorter 18-round home and away campaign.

But Solomon believes the Bombers are on the right track as an announcement on the club's next full-time coach nears.

"It's going to take a bit of time and I know that patience isn't a thing that we've all got at the moment due to the last 15-20 years, but we are absolutely on the right path as a football club," Solomon said.

08:24

Full post-match, R24: Bombers

Watch Essendon’s press conference after round 24’s match against Port Adelaide

"To see Caddy perform the way he did today and a handful of those other young kids ... I keep saying it, another 40-60 games and it's going to be really exciting.

"It's going to be hard work individually and collectively, and there's no short cuts, but we are on the right path."

04:28

Last two mins: Port edges Bombers as duo ruin former captain's moment

The thrilling final moments between Essendon and Port Adelaide in round 24

That future may not include former captain Zach Merrett, who tallied a game-high 32 disposals and a goal against Port amid speculation he could again attempt to force a trade.

Essendon held Merrett to his contract when he tried to join Hawthorn last year.

"Ultimately that will be his decision and a lot of that will play out over the coming month," Solomon said.

08:18

Highlights: Essendon v Port Adelaide

The Bombers and Power clash in round 24 of the 2026 Toyota AFL Premiership Season

"From a personal point of view I hope he's going to stay and he gets what he deserves at the end of his career."

Mitch Georgiades kicked five goals for Port, while Mitch Zadow and Jack Whitlock added two important goals each.

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The victory gave 15th-placed Port a 7-16 record in Josh Carr's first season as coach since taking over from long-time mentor Ken Hinkley.

"It's been an enjoyable year," Carr said.

"The last five weeks have had challenges and that's predominantly around personnel.

04:12

Full post-match, R24: Power

Watch Port Adelaide’s press conference after round 24’s match against Essendon

"The silver lining to that is there are guys getting games into them against really good teams and getting feedback on the difference between the two sides.

"Whether the year's a success, I think that's determined by the future."