FORMER Essendon captain Jobe Watson is still an important leader within the club, challenging the team's midfield to stand up at three-quarter time of the Bombers' clash with the Brisbane Lions.

After Essendon had jumped to a seven-goal lead midway through the second quarter, the Lions mounted a big comeback, kicking five consecutive goals to be just five points down at the final change.

The Lions' change in fortune had come through the midfield, ruckman Stefan Martin giving his team first use of the ball and dominating clearances.

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Essendon coach John Worsfold said Watson, who finished with a team-high 33 disposals and eight marks, put it upon the Bombers midfield to regain control of the match.

"He was the really vocal one at three-quarter time, and he was ready to step up to the midfield challenge, not on his own, obviously, but he was really disappointed that we let Brisbane beat us in stoppages in the third quarter," Worsfold said.

"His leadership is still there for us to see and be part of.

"With Dyson (Heppell) and Zach Merrett and ‘Hooksy’ (Cale Hooker), they all stepped up with their leadership as well in the last quarter."

The Bombers finished the match in a rush, kicking the final five goals to seal a 27-point win, their second for the season.

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Worsfold said Essendon’s coaching group didn't change too much at three-quarter time, preferring to challenge the players to continue to play their own style.

"We said we're not going to support you, as in put extra numbers in there, we know what's going on, let's step up to that challenge.

"It was really pleasing they drove that."

With many key players – including Watson, Hooker, Michael Hurley and Brent Stanton – returning from their WADA bans this season, Worsfold said the team still had work to do to build cohesion.

"They've only had a couple of games under me, and as a group together now, so they're things we need to keep working on.