Essendon made it back-to-back VFL wins on Sunday, beating Geelong by 10 points in a tight clash at GMHBA Stadium.

In a sign of the day ahead, the Bombers’ defensive unit were up to the early challenge of the Cats and weathered some early attacks, with goals to Nik Cox and Alwyn Davey Jnr providing due reward at the other end.

The Dons struggled to impact on the scoreboard in the second term despite holding their own in general play, the two sides going into half-time locked at 24 apiece.

Taking advantage of a more open game after the break, the Dons burst away to an important lead thanks to the aerial threat of John Jorgensen, whose three-goal effort caused headaches for the Cats throughout.

With Geelong fighting back to tie the game up at the five-minute mark of the final term, the Bombers stood up at the perfect time.

Goals in succession to Pat Voss and a returning Jake Sutton restored the Essendon advantage, before a brilliant running goal from Alastair Lord put the result beyond doubt.

The Bombers’ AFL-listed quartet of Kaine Baldwin, Cian McBride, Rhett Montgomerie and Lewis Hayes combined for 46 marks on the day, holding the fort under immense pressure.

Elijah Tsatas continued his dynamic VFL form, racking up 31 disposals and 11 clearances, while Massimo D’Ambrosio accumulated 26 touches of his own.

Nik Cox was solid with 12 early disposals prior to being rested after half-time.

The win continues an improved run of form for the Dons, who are set up for an enticing clash against seventh-placed Williamstown at DSV Stadium on Friday night.

GEELONG     1.2    3.6    5.8    7.12   (54)
ESSENDON   3.3    3.6    6.9    9.10   (64)

Goals: Jorgensen 3, Voss, Sutton, Munkara, Lord, Davey Jnr, Cox

Best: Tsatas, Baldwin, Montgomerie, D’Ambrosio, Jorgensen