Southport finished strongest against a much-improved Essendon outfit in the VFL on Saturday, recording an eight-point win.

The Bombers started well in response to a disappointing loss against the Swans a week prior, piecing together swift forward 50 entries and holding their own at the contest.

A lively second term saw the Dons break into the lead off the back of a four-goal half from Tex Wanganeen, who continues to show a keen eye for goal at VFL level this season.

The defensive tandem of Kaine Baldwin and Rhett Montgomerie commanded the air and forced the Sharks into some inaccuracy in front of goal, keeping the Dons well placed going into the break.

After a mostly even third quarter, consecutive Southport goals before the final break turned the tide in their favour, beginning to show a clean pair of heels on home deck.

The lead expanded to 20 halfway through the final term, but the Dons stayed within touching distance through majors from Anthony Munkara and Pat Voss, the latter finishing with three goals for the day.

Despite the late charge, Southport eventually repelled the effort to hang on for the win.

Among positive signs for the Bombers was the return of midfielder Will Setterfield, who slotted back into the mix with 20 disposals and five tackles.

Defender Joel Fitzgerald and highly-touted draft prospect Harley Reid were also standouts for the Dons on the day.

Essendon have a bye this week, before turning their eyes to a matchup with Coburg in the final round of the 2023 season.

SOUTHPORT   1.4   4.9   7.12   12.15  (87)
ESSENDON    1.3   6.5   8.6   12.7   (79)

Goals: Wanganeen 4, Voss 3, Munkara 2, Montgomerie, McCarty, Cootee

Best: Baldwin, Fitzgerald, Wanganeen, Setterfield, Voss, Reid