Essendon have fought off a gallant Preston outfit to record a 23-point victory at ETU Stadium on Sunday.

In wintery conditions, the Dons were able to record their second win of 2023, but it took until the last quarter to lock away the result.

The Bullants came out determined, with a scrappy contest ensuing as both teams settled into the cold environment.

While Sam Conforti and Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti in his return game from injury gave the Dons an ideal start, Preston would respond with the next three goals. Essendon would then kick the next two goals to one to round out the first half one-point down.

Holding an 11-point buffer, the final quarter was competitively-fought, but Essendon's class in front of goals proved too much for Preston, with a three goal to one term sealing victory.

AFL-listed pair Snelling (28 disposals, nine tackles, two goals) and Hobbs (27 disposals, seven tackles, one goal) were big factors in Essendon's well-earned win.

Forward Samuel Conforti showed why he's one the most exciting young prospects in the VFL with 25 disposals and three goals.

Defender Rhett Montgomerie (21 disposals, nine marks) continued his strong start to the season, while Josh Hotchkin was enormous in the ruck with 50 hitouts.

Tex Wanganeen suffered an injury but played out the rest of the match.

The Bombers return to the NEC Hangar on Sunday, April 16 for their round four clash against the league-leading Casey Demons.

PRESTON         1.4     5.6     8.7      9.11     (65)
ESSENDON      2.3     5.5     9.12    12.16    (88)

GOALS
Essendon: Conforti 3, Snelling 2, Rasinac 2, McDonald-Tipungwuti 2, Voss, Hobbs, Cootee

BEST
Essendon: Hobbs, Snelling, Montgomerie, Conforti, Rasinac, Hotchkin