Essendon’s Easter Sunday loss to Fremantle was a disappointing outcome for the Bombers, who were looking to record their second win of the season.

Despite winning hitouts (39-31), the Dons lost clearances (30-42), outworked by a hungrier Dockers midfield.

Losing the set-piece battle resulted in Fremantle gaining more inside 50s (53-41) to put Essendon’s defensive group under pressure.

Inside their attacking arc, the Dockers were eight per cent more efficient in front of goals and took twice as many marks (14-8) in a dominant display.

While the Bombers did win more one-percenters (43-37), Fremantle winning contested (117-134) and uncontested possessions (244-259) meant the Dons were chasing tail defensively for large parts of the game.

Despite Essendon’s flat team performance, there were individuals who shone with their efforts.

Captain Dyson Heppell gave his all, accumulating 14 contested possessions and game-highs in disposals (34) and intercept marks (12).

Matt Guelfi continued his career-best form by producing a game-high seven inside 50s, while defender Jake Kelly produced a game-high 500 metres gained in another solid performance.