Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti earns Essendon contract extension after breaking season

ESSENDON’S cult hero Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti has earned a contract extension after a breakout season coming off the rookie list.

Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti in action for Essendon. Picture: Colleen Petch

ESSENDON cult hero Anthony Tipungwuti’s breakout season has been rewarded with a contract extension.

After starting the season on the Bombers’ rookie list, “Walla” has become a crucial member of John Worsfold’s team and signed a three-year deal that takes him through to the end of 2019.

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The 23-year-old has been a shining light in a tough year for the Bombers with his pace, skills and aggression off half-back

McDonald-Tipungwuti said it was a privilege to be playing AFL football in the red and black.

Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti celebrates a goal against St Kilda Saints.

“Essendon gave me the chance to play AFL, and I’m really happy to keep playing my footy for the Bombers,” he told the club website.

“I have learnt a lot this year since getting my chance to play senior footy, I know I have to keep working hard on my game but I’m really enjoying playing my football under Woosha.

“I have some really good mates at Essendon, especially Harts (Michael Hartley), I love playing with the boys, the fans have been great and I’m really excited about what we can do together as a team in the next few years.”

McDonald-Tipungwuti made his debut in Round 1 and has played 19 games in his maiden AFL season.

Bombers coach John Worsfold praised his breakout star who’s versatility has been a highlight.

“Walla is one of our most exciting young players with a bright future ahead of him,” he said.

“He works hard and has a long way to go with his development but we can’t deny his electric pace, clean use of the footy and his aggressive tackles add something very special to our line up.

“We’re really excited about where we are heading as a Club and to have Walla part of this journey next year is fantastic.”

Born in the Tiwi Islands, Walla played his junior football with the Tiwi Bombers in the Northern Territory Football League before moving to Victoria at 17 to play for the Gippsland Power in the TAC Cup and later Essendon’s VFL team.