Essendon is not simply playing to make up the numbers in September with the challenge of winning a final being set to the playing group.

The Bombers have played in just two finals series in the last nine years – losing on both occasions.

General Manager Football Performance Neil Craig said the challenge was set for the playing group to improve on their recent finals record.

“The club is really pleased to have made the finals particularly given the situation that our club is in,” Craig said.

“Along with the stresses and strains that our club faces apart from the challenges of the AFL competition we are very pleased.”

“I think it has been a fantastic effort by the playing group to remain focused and play good enough football to get into the eight.”

“The challenge is to play a winning final because the club has played in two finals in the last nine years and those performances have been really poor.”

“The next challenge is for our playing group is an expectation to win and that is what we will have our group focused on this week.”

Craig confirmed forward Jake Carlisle would push for selection later in the week as he looked to overcome a minor hamstring strain.

Midfiedler David Myers was also set to return to the line up after being a late withdrawal from Saturday’s draw with Carlton.

 “We look forward to him coming back in the side because his form over the year has been really consistent,” Myers said.

“He is a big strong midfielder who adds a lot to our side and is a great leader out on the field as well.”

Mark Baguley will undergo testing throughout the week to ensure he is right to line up after copping a heavy knock late in Saturday’s draw.