Essendon Coach John Worsfold says he was excited by the football his team produced in the opening half against Fremantle.
The side was unable to maintain their form, as the Dockers charged home in hot conditions to eventually run out comfortable winners.
But it was the Bombers who started best with the lead getting out to 27 points during the second quarter, before the home side recorded 11 of the last 12 inside 50s for the half, to reduce the margin at the main break to 13 points.
The Bombers record now stands at three wins and four losses.
“It’s a hard road when you’re trying to practice and learn in the heat of a season, which is the reality for us,” Essendon Coach John Worsfold said.
“We’re prepared to do the hard work.
“That the question I want to ask the players, ‘are they going to enjoy the challenge of knuckling down and going through this phase?’
“All the indications are they are, they’re ready to work hard, they are working hard.
“We’re seeing some really good things happening.
“We couldn’t sustain it today but I thought in that first half some of the footy we played was really testing Freo out on their home ground.
“The way we moved the ball, they were really struggling to stop us so we were pretty excited about that.”
Joe Daniher was the Bombers leading goal kicker. He finished with three goals while also recording 20 disposals, seven marks and five inside 50s.
“Joey is a very good footballer and he’s going to continue to improve,” Worsfold said.
“He’s still in his development phase as a tall forward and there is plenty of upside still.
“He’s a good player, he’s got areas to improve on, there is no doubt.
“He’s a developing player, but he’s a very talented developing player.
“It’s exciting to watch.”
The match also marked the return of David Myers who played across half back in his first senior match since 2015.
“’Myersy’ fought out pretty well,” Worsfold said.
“It was great to have him back, he’s worked really hard, he’s had some serious injuries throughout his career, so it was great to see him back and he’s got through the game which is awesome.
“Hopefully he can build now and show what he’s capable of which we’ve only ever seen glimpses of.”
