A flaky Essendon have shown they remain a long way from AFL finals contention, rolling over in the third quarter of a 36-point loss to Melbourne at Etihad Stadium.

The Bombers led at halftime but conceded seven goals to one in Sunday afternoon’s third term on the way to a 16.12 (108) to 10.12 (72) defeat.

It continues a worrying trend for the Bombers, who have been beaten this season in the third quarter of every game.

Underrated defender Neville Jetta starred with an outstanding shutdown role on Essendon dangerman Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti, while Christian Salem (27 disposals) and debutant Charlie Spargo (two goals) also impressed.

Ruckman Max Gawn was quiet in the first half but had a huge third term, slotting two checkside goals and racking up 16 of his 42 hit-outs.

Melbourne’s first victory since round three lifts them back within sight of the top eight and will be a major morale-booster ahead of winnable games against St Kilda, Gold Coast and Carlton.

Coming off a four-day break from their disappointing Anzac Day loss to Collingwood, Essendon looked by far the better team in the first half, with Andrew McGrath and David Zaharakis using their speed to open up the game.

McGrath had 19 disposals up to halftime and Zaharakis 17 but neither had a substantial impact when the game was on the line in the third term.

The Bombers were outscored 12 goals to five in the second half.

Many had expected Essendon to make a big finals push this year but, with the season almost a third of the way through, the Bombers are 14th on the ladder with two wins and four losses.

The performances of big-name recruits Jake Stringer (three goals) and Devon Smith (22 disposals, two goals) were a positive, but Joe Daniher (0.3) was again well down on last season’s All-Australian form.

Melbourne spearhead Jesse Hogan had an injury scare in the third quarter when he hobbled from the ground after landing heavily on his right ankle.

The 23-year-old returned to play out the game and finished with eight disposals and two goals.