Essendon has rebounded from the disappointment of last week, with a stirring victory over Melbourne.

Boasting 12 players with 40 or less AFL games, the Dons held off a last quarter charge to record their first win since round eight.

“We never doubted the quality of the kids,” Essendon veteran Brendon Goddard said.

“What’s really important is you get that natural energy at the start of the game, but it was really impressive they were able to sustain that for four quarters.

“Some of their efforts in the last quarter were outstanding.”

Joe Daniher led the way for the Bombers kicking five goals, including an important last quarter goal when the game was in the balance.

“It was good to see him just get rewarded for his hard work,” Goddard said of his younger teammate.

“I was really proud of him today.  He really stood up and played like a man.” 

Just six days ago, the Bombers were licking their wounds after a 110-point loss to St Kilda.

After some honest meetings during the week, Essendon was able to rediscover the defensive pressure that  helped it compete with the competition’s best early in the season. 

The Bombers recorded 84 tackles for the match and the one-on-one work of its backline was a particular feature.

“I think last week was the time for everyone to reflect on their own performances, their own career really,” Goddard said. 

“It was a step in the right direction, obviously last week was rock bottom.

“We’ve climbed that first step… there is still a few more to go.

“It sets a really good tone now for everyone.”