The AFL is a typically even competition where no win comes easy regardless of ladder position and Saturday night’s Dreamtime at the ‘G clash was proof of that.

Essendon’s matchup with Richmond in front of nearly 80,000 people was a high-pressure game that asked a lot of composure from the Dons’ back six to overcome the Tigers surging game style.

Mason Redman understands that every game and result is earned, with the gritty 12-point win showing great maturity from the side.

“Richmond are a very proud club, and a very proud group,” Redman said.

“I liked the resolve in our group, it certainly wasn’t our prettiest performance, but we are happy to move on and we are looking forward to Gold Coast next week.”

A crucial addition to the back six this weekend was Jordan Ridley, who didn’t miss a beat in his return game.

Taking home the Yiooken Award as best on ground after a 31-disposal, 13-mark effort, Ridley impressed Redman on all fronts.

“He is a quality player, ‘Rids’ (Ridley), it’s awesome to have him back,” Redman said.

“I was so happy to see him happy to be back out there, he has been dying to get out and play football again, he was chomping at the bit.”

With another week down, the Bombers continue to find themselves entrenched within the top eight, currently sitting in second.

Redman and the group are not fazed by the ladder, knowing that a lot of hard work is still ahead for the group to attain a finals berth in 2024.

“It’s awesome, but honestly we haven’t spoken about it much as a group, ‘Scotty’ (Senior Coach Brad Scott) tends to keep us level,” Redman said.

“We were in the top half of the eight late last season, and it eventually meant nothing, we have to keep striving as a group.”