Essendon midfielder Jackson Merrett says the side was disappointed it was not able to finish off the game strongly against West Coast.

The Bombers were impressive in the first half and kept the Eagles to three goals in the third term.

But in the last quarter the floodgates opened as the home side booted nine goals to two to run away with a 78 point win.

“It was disappointing to play well for the first three quarters and then in the last quarter it just didn’t look like we gave enough effort and intent,” Merrett said.

“It’s just about being elite and professional in all of those little areas and then it’ll come out in our game.

“It’s just about bringing that effort and intent for four quarters.  It’s happened the last couple of weeks – we’ve dropped away for one quarter and it has cost us the game.

“If we play four quarters I’m sure we’ll get a few more wins throughout the season.”

Merrett was playing his 50^th game for the Club and his family made the trip from Victoria to watch the game.

The 23 year old picked up 23 possessions in one of his best games for the year.

It was Merrett’s 7^th match of the season and his fourth in a row, after featuring in the opening three rounds of the year.

Since his return to the side, Merrett has averaged 20 possessions a game and he said he’s enjoying playing further up the field.

“It’s special – its only 50 games – but it’s something special for me and my family so it was good to have them over here,” Merrett said.

“I’ve pushed up on to the wing over the last couple of weeks, so I enjoy it up there – a little bit more freedom, you can run with the ball towards goal a bit more.

“I’m enjoying it so hopefully I can keep playing some consistent footy for the rest of the year.” 

The Bombers now have another long break before they meet St Kilda next Sunday at Etihad Stadium.