Essendon great Matthew Lloyd says the Club's backline held up well despite coming under fierce pressure in 2015.

The Bombers gave up 2,134 points for the season at an average of 97 points per game to be ranked 14^th in the competition.

The side ranked 11^th for contested possessions, 16^th for clearances, 15^th for centre clearances and 16^th at stoppages increasing the pressure on the defence.

“When you only win six games for the year, you’re going to have the ball down there a fair bit,” Lloyd said.

“They played as a real team under adversity. 

“Hurley has had a breakout year and may well figure in the All-Australian team so he’s a big tick there. 

“I think Mark Baguley – I hope he’s in the top five in the Essendon Best and Fairest because you just knew what you were going to get from him every week.

“Cale Hooker just goes from strength to strength whether it be back or forward.

“Marty Gleeson has enhanced his name and his brand, he’s just someone you can rely on for next year as well.

“Overall you’d have to say a big tick for the Essendon backline.”