Essendon Coach James Hird is pleased but not satisfied with the side’s early season form.

The Bombers play Carlton at the MCG tomorrow after matching the Swans for three quarters in round one and beating the Hawks last week.

“It's early in the season … there's things we did well last week and there's things we didn't do as well, and we're trying to concentrate on that,” Hird said. 

Dustin Fletcher returns to bolster a defence that has been impressive in the opening two games.

“I thought his (Fletcher) game against Sydney was outstanding.  We’re lucky we’ve got a good complement of tall defenders and tall forwards,” Hird said. 

Essendon gave up ten goals against the Swans and 11 against Hawthorn.

But up the other end, the Bombers are ranked 15^th in attack so far this season. 

“It’s not just about what you score, it’s about what you keep your opposition to.  We’re happy with the way things are going, obviously it can get better, but I think we’ll see over the journey we’ll get more reward for those inside 50’s,” Hird said. 

Like last season, the Bombers opening quarters have been positive. 

The side has conceded just one goal in its two matches and Hird has made the beginning of the match a priority.

“Our first quarter this week against Carlton is our focus and at quarter time we’ll re-assess where we’re at,” he said.

“MCG, Saturday afternoon against Carlton – I think that’s every Essendon players dream game and they’re looking forward to it.”