A gutsy four quarter team performance at the MCG tonight has seen Essendon demolish arch rivals Carlton in what is possibly the club's most important win of the season.

The Bombers delivered above expectations in a season defining win – a victory that makes their hopes of playing finals football this year more realistic.

Emerging defender, Tayte Pears, was sensational, keeping Carlton spearhead Brendan Fevola to just two goals and running up the ground to set up two for the Bombers.

“The Carlton win earlier in the year was great because it was so close but this win was fantastic because the boys really showed what they could do,” Pears said.

“Running off isn’t something I do that often but it was great to get down the ground and set up a couple of goals.

“I sort of took off and no one really came to me so I couldn’t believe my luck.

“I just went about it and played my role for the team and Fev was unlucky missing a few shots at goal but I’ll take that.”

Jobe Watson was in career-best form, collecting 16 possessions to the main break before missing the remainder of the match with an ankle injury. He is expected to miss at least one week.

Angus Monfries kicked five goals straight, Andrew Welsh and Brent Prismall were imposing through the midfield and Alwyn Davey’s defensive pressure around the ground was first class.

“I think the midfield pressure really helped us tonight. They picked Carlton up a bit higher up the ground and made it easier for our defence to spoil,” Pears said.

“Jobe Watson was fantastic for the first half. He is a very important player for our team. If he had played for the whole game, we would have won by a lot more.

“I think Prismall has found his feet now and he is fitting into the side really well. He is an amazing player and will be good for the future of the club.”

The 69-point win sets the Bombers up for a thrilling blockbuster against arch-rivals Collingwood at the MCG next Friday night.