Essendon’s two-point road win against the Eagles on Good Friday was far from pretty but it was enough to secure a third straight win leading into Anzac Day.

Peter Wright and Nic Martin stuffed the stat sheet with two brilliant individual efforts, while a rapid third-term response held the side in good stead despite a nervy finish to the contest.

The stats that mattered from round six:

Happy homecoming for Marto

When Nic Martin heads to Optus Stadium, you can usually bank on a good performance – Friday night was no exception.

The 24-year-old’s 26 touches tied Zach Merrett for most on the ground, going at a typically clean 85 per cent disposal efficiency and reestablishing the lead with a spectacular late mark and goal.

Martin had an equal game-high nine intercept possessions, frequently cutting across to cull West Coast attacks after the main break and showcasing the traits he’s learnt from his year at half back in 2024.

The hybrid winger was one of only two Bombers to register 100 per cent game time, the other being key back Ben McKay.

02:27

Rd 6 | Martin post-game

Hear from Nic Martin following Essendons win over in Perth against the Eagles.

Welcome back, Wrighty

Two-metre, 17-touch, seven-mark, six-goal Peter sounds pretty good.

In his first game of the season, Peter Wright provided more than a great option in attack for the Dons, virtually changing the game with his two second quarter goals and finishing with six, one short of a career-best night.

With the Dons ruck stocks already depleted going into the game, Wright held his own in 17 ruck contests on the night and could prove vital to the side in that space when Kyle Langford returns from injury to aid up forward.

00:34

Rd 6 | Wright place, Wright time: Big Bomber back with bang

Peter Wright slots a neat goal in his return game for Essendon

Vice-Captain lifts side with big term

Andy McGrath’s performance – especially in the third term - was big in a time of real need for the Dons.

13 of the Vice-Captain’s 25 touches came in the quarter, with three intercepts and three marks coming in that half an hour.

McGrath also used his legs to great effect, getting involved in six scoring chains. His matchup with experienced forward Jamie Cripps made for enticing viewing.

Shiel keeps on keeping on

Dylan Shiel is quietly producing one of his finest career stretches in the red and black.

Since rejoining the line-up late in 2024, the on-baller has been a consistent contributor and was integral on Friday night with 23 touches and a vital second-term goal to keep momentum on the Dons’ side.

His nine disposals in the second term, as well as his run-and-carry late, proved vital.