Lance Franklin's wayward AFL goal-kicking and Brendan Fevola's second-straight big game have meant a tightening up in the Coleman Medal race.

Fevola's seven goals, including a superb shot from a tight angle in the last term, were a highlight for Carlton as they lost to Essendon by 35 points.

That followed his eight goals the week before in the win over Collingwood.

Fevola has moved to 57 goals, only four behind Franklin as the league's leading goal-kicker.

It was an eventful game for the Carlton star, who is negotiating a new contract with the club.

In the first term, his collision with Essendon's Henry Slattery sent the young Bomber to hospital with a fractured cheekbone.

While Fevola is on fire, Franklin's sometimes-erratic radar again needs some adjustment.

His 1.3 on Saturday in the upset loss to North Melbourne followed his 1.6 the week before as the Hawks beat Adelaide.

Fremantle captain Matthew Pavlich is 10 goals behind Fevola after kicking five on Friday night in the eight-point loss to St Kilda.

Brisbane key forward Daniel Bradshaw, who is injured, is fourth with 43 and teammate Jonathan Brown kicked 2.3 on Saturday night in the win over Adelaide to move to 41.

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