Entering the fourth quarter of Sunday’s crunch win over Fremantle, there was no denying the challenge that sat in front of the Bombers.

Trailing by 25 points in the early stages of the term, a large momentum shift led by an invigorated midfield surge in the final 15 minutes saw clearance after clearance fall Essendon’s way.

Capitalising out the middle to win six of the final seven centre bounces, Jye Caldwell (32 disposals, eight score involvements) was instrumental in that run.

The midfielder fought hard all day in a midfield that constantly supported each other, even when momentum wasn’t in the group’s favour.

“We’ve got each other’s back,” Caldwell said.

“We didn’t shy away from the moment, we knew what was in front of us.”

After a turbulent few weeks had the side on the unfavourable side of margins and shouldering both internal and external pressure, Caldwell understood the importance of the game to the fans and supporters.

“It’s been a pretty big week - probably a couple of weeks - we haven’t had the results we were after,” he said.

“To come out today and get the four points is massive and puts a smile on all our faces. We felt that even the way we played today was an all-around performance and we hope that can put a smile on our fans’ faces.”

While the individual praise is easy to give for Caldwell, who’s enjoying a breakout season in the engine room, the entire midfield’s willingness to get their hands dirty led to the ‘golden point’ opportunity for Sam Durham.

Durham’s late burst out of clearance to seize the deciding score might hold some added benefits around the club this week.

“I’ll get him all the coffees this week.” Caldwell said.