“If it bleeds, we can kill it. And we reckon Essendon can bleed.”

These are the words of triple-premiership coach Leigh Matthews (inspired by Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 80s classic, Predator) ahead of the Lions’ Round 10, 2001 clash against reigning premiers Essendon.

Fresh from a big victory over the Hawks the Bombers fire power appeared to have dried up with only two first half goals.

Led by Alistair Lynch (4 goals) and with a five-goal lead at half time the Lions would claim their biggest scalp of the season.

The victory over the 2000 premiers signalled the start of an amazing run for the Lions.

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