Essendon midfielder Kyle Langford says the opening five minutes of the second half against Geelong was crucial in the final result.
In that time the Cats booted three goals, including one super goal.
The Bombers had dominated the opening half, heading to the main change with a 40-point advantage.
“We were just doing the basics and linking up really well through the midfield,” Langford said.
“It was the first five minutes of the third quarter that let us down, we let them get on a run.”
The Cats were in front by three quarter time and ended up running out 22-point victors.
Brendon Goddard (28 possessions) led the way for the Bombers, while Jobe Watson (27), Dyson Heppell (24) and Darcy Parish (24) also found plenty of the ball.
Langford was also influential with 20 possessions, seven marks and three tackles.
“I’ve been working on my midfield craft a fair bit … I get a fair bit of time through there compared to last year,” he said.
“The likes of ‘Hep’ and Jobe and even ‘Myersy’ – even through he’s injured, he’s still another mentor for myself.
"They have a wealth of knowledge so it’s awesome to be able to get that off them.”
The Bombers round one blockbuster against Hawthorn is now less than two weeks away.
The side will have this weekend off before ramping up preparations for the clash with the Hawks.