Essendon onballer Darcy Parish has won the AFL Rising Star for round two after his key role in Saturday’s upset win over Melbourne.

Parish showed why the Bombers recruited him with pick No.5 in last November national draft, racking up 21 disposals and eight tackles.

He also kicked the match-sealing goal.

One of the most notable features of the win for Essendon was that Parish, Joe Daniher and Zach Merrett – all younger players – were high among their best.

Parish also impressed on debut in the round-one loss to Gold Coast.

“Darcy’s first two games have been extremely pleasing,” said coach John Worsfold.

“He’s been really strong in the contested area of his game.

“He shows a lot of composure under pressure and we are really excited at the club about the bright future ahead for such a talented young player.”