Sam Durham just keeps on keeping on.

The midfielder's electric display against West Coast on Sunday afternoon continued his stellar run of form in 2024 and reaffirmed his rise from 'cult hero' to star status, gathering 29 touches (13 contested) and a goal as the Dons pushed away for a 30-point win.

Holding onto third place on the ladder following the result, the Bombers’ ability to withstand pressure and get firing in the final term encouraged Durham, who’s firmly established himself as one of the most consistent contributors in their drive up the ladder.

“It was tough, they threw a couple of punches early,” Durham said.

“I’m pretty proud of the group that we stood up the way we did in that second half.”

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Rd 15 | Durham post-game

We chat to midfielder Sam Durham following our round 15 win over the Eagles.

Durham himself has stood up in a big way this season, taking on an inside midfield role with aplomb alongside skipper Zach Merrett and fellow improver Jye Caldwell.

His average of 21 disposals and four clearances per game this season are well up on his career averages, however for Bomber fans it’s the one-percenters that have been most apparent in Durham’s game, including his repeat efforts at stoppages and selfless running.

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Rd 15 | Bombers burst out middle as Caldwell celebrates in style

Jye Caldwell slots a brilliant goal on the run to put Essendon in a formidable position late.

Durham cites the teachings of his fellow midfield brigade, as well as former housemate Andrew McGrath with fuelling his rise this season.

“I’ve got some great mentors in ‘Darc’ (Darcy Parish), Zach and ‘Calders’ in there as well,” Durham said.

“Everyone gets a lick of the ice cream one week, so we’re all just chopping out in there, it’s good.”

“When I first got drafted, I moved in with Andy and he was super for me, teaching me the right ways off-field as well. The likes of ‘Darc’ have (also) been great for me on how to live life and play good footy.”

Durham will be keen to continue his form when the Dons suit up to face Geelong in the annual Country Game on Saturday night, a huge test for the side’s credentials this year.

One of many crunch games leading into the business end of the campaign, Durham wants to keep delivering for the Bomber faithful, who flocked into Marvel Stadium to record another crowd of over 40,000 on Sunday.

“(The coming run of games) is awesome,” Durham said.

“We don’t want to look too far ahead, we take it week-by-week but the Bombers fans were loud and proud tonight, so we’re glad to get the win for them.”