Essendon’s effort to apply pressure further up the field in the last quarter proved pivotal in the win over Brisbane, according the David Zaharakis.

The home side hit the front early in the last quarter after hauling in a 42-point margin.

But the Bombers responded, booting the last five goals of the game and eventually winning by 27 points.

Zaharakis said the side’s ability to win the ball back in the middle of the ground, rather than deep in defence, created more scoring opportunities.

“We had to get in their face and cause turnovers around the footy and not try and turn it over deep in our back 50, we want to turn the ball over in the middle of the ground,” he said,

“We got our ball movement going and we got some relatively easy goals going back towards goal in the last quarter.

“At least we had the guts and will to comeback and win the game.

“We easily could have rolled over and lost that game. When it’s on the road and a team gets up and about like that, it is difficult so it’s good we were able to come away with a win and we’ll take 2-0.”

The Lions kicked two of the first three goals in the match, but from there Essendon controlled much of the first half.

“Around the contest we were really good and then our ball movement off that was great,” Zaharakis said.

“We were creating some turnovers and getting forward, but probably in the last five minutes of the second quarter it started to open up and Brisbane got those last two goals which really changed the momentum of the game.”

Brisbane kicked the first three goals of the third term before Joe Daniher stemmed the tide from a set shot.

“They were winning all of the centre clearances and getting it straight in and with the Gabba being such a small ground as soon as you win a clean centre clearance it’s one kick and you get a goal,” Zaharakis said.

“We had to tighten that up and that’s something we’ll work on for next week.”

The victory was made sweeter with Brent Stanton celebrating his 250^th match.

Zaharakis said the veteran midfielder had played an important role in his development.

“He’s obviously a close mate of mine and he’s been a mentor since day one,” Zaharakis said.

“It was obviously great to get a win for him, he means a lot to me … I wouldn’t be the player I am without his help since day one.

“I was very happy we got the win for him because he’s an Essendon person through and through … he loves the footy club so hopefully we can get some long term success for him.”