An inspired three-goal first quarter from power forward Daria Bannister set Essendon on their way and they stormed to an 11.6 (72) to 1.1 (7) win in front of 3325 fans at Windy Hill on Friday.
The Bombers (2-3) sit just four points outside the top eight, while Melbourne (1-4), normally among the league's strongest teams, are in the bottom four with their finals hopes slipping away.
It was Essendon's biggest ever win, their first over the Demons, and Melbourne's lowest ever score and biggest losing margin.
Melbourne coach Mick Stinear has challenged his players to save their AFLW season. (Julian Smith/AAP PHOTOS)
"Bitterly disappointing," Stinear said after Friday's match.
"We know we've had a few injuries and a few setbacks and we lost two during the game.
"But we felt like our effort and execution are two things still very much in our control, and that wasn't at the level required today."
Melbourne were without the likes of Tayla Harris, Lauren Pearce, Olivia Purcell, Blaithin Mackin, Eden Zanker and Grace Beasley.
On Friday, Eliza McNamara suffered a broken nose in the first quarter, and Shelley Heath injured her left shoulder in a tackle in the second term and was assisted from the field.
Stinear confirmed Heath had an AC joint injury.
Essendon next play Sydney at Whitten Oval on Wednesday, and Melbourne play GWS at Ikon Park on Thursday.
"We've got to roll up our sleeves and get to work. The condensed period of footy actually gives you an opportunity to get back and play," Stinear said.
"Not the outcome we wanted today, but I know this group's a proud group, we've got some pretty strong leaders. We'll bounce back next Thursday night."
Essendon impressed with their surging, relentless attack while keeping Melbourne scoreless across the final three quarters.
Daria Bannister races out with two quick goals for the Bombers!— AFL Women's (@aflwomens) #AFLWDonsDees pic.twitter.com/aUSPfBxIUGSeptember 27, 2024
Essendon midfield enforcer Madison Prespakis racked up 32 disposals and seven clearances and also kicked a goal.
Ellyse Gamble and Amber Clarke kicked two goals apiece amid a strong team showing.
"Daria Bannister kicked four goals - she's coming off a knee reco, so it's taken her a few weeks to find her feet and the tempo of the game," coach Natalie Wood said.
"For her to get that reward (is great), and a lot of it's off the back of pressure.
"Today was a really quite consistent effort across the four quarters, but also in terms of contribution.''
Essendon's Sophie Van De Huevel came off for treatment on her knee in the final term and will be assessed.
Youngster Ryleigh Wotherspoon kicked Melbourne's only goal, in the first term, while Maeve Chaplin (23 touches) and Tahlia Gillard fought hard.
Bannister's three early goals gave Essendon a 17-point lead at the first change.
The Bombers nudged out to a 32-point lead at half-time, then went into party mode in the second half.
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