Essendon has advanced to the second week of the VFLW finals series with a 10-point away victory over rivals Box Hill on Saturday.

In a physically taxing contest at Box Hill City Oval, the Bombers struck first through a classy Mia-Rae Clifford snap and continued to press in attack with an early wind advantage.

The Hawks bit back ahead of the main break, before a late Jayda Richardson goal restored some ascendancy for the Dons to take a one-point lead into the half.

After the change, the Bombers dominated the territory battle but kept the door slightly ajar for the Hawks after missing some opportunities.

Losing a rotation after Maddi Wilson had gone down with injury, the Bombers were forced to defend wilfully against fresh legs.

The Bombers’ back six were stoic in the late stages, keeping the Hawks attack scoreless for a tense 10-minute period in the final term.

The last line’s desperation was ultimately rewarded at the other end, when an Olivia Manfre mark and goal on the siren put the exclamation mark on a spirited win.

Sophie Molan was outstanding, leading all comers with 24 disposals and playing an integral role with Zoe Hurrell in repelling Box Hill’s late surges.

Grace Dicker was an important presence with 14 tackles, while Jaimee-Lee Morrow and Megan Ryan’s ruckwork provided headaches for the Hawks.

The Bombers will take their momentum into another huge game next week, continuing what has been an inspired season thus far.

BOX HILL     0.0    2.1    2.2    3.3   (21)
ESSENDON   1.2    2.2    3.5    4.7    (31)

Best: Molan, Chaston, Sutton, Hurrell, Dicker

Goals: Richardson, Manfre, Chaston, Clifford