Essendon captain Jobe Watson is confident his side can break a ten year finals drought on Saturday night against North Melbourne at the MCG.

The Bombers last win in finals was back in 2004 with an elimination final victory over Melbourne.

The 29-year-old midfielder said he was adamant his side was in a stronger position heading into this finals campaign compared to previous seasons.

“We have been able to play in a lot of close games, defend a lot better then we have in previous years and the list is in a healthier shape then what it was going into previous finals campaigns,” Watson said.

“We have played at a higher level this season than what we have in previous seasons as we prepare to embark on a finals campaign.”

Essendon has improved their defence in recent weeks and now rank fourth in the league for points against.

Coach Mark Thompson believes the improvement in the defensive aspect of their game will hold them in good stead throughout September.

“Finally I think this team is playing with defence and the last four years basically they have been learning how to do it,” Thompson said.

“That is the way we like it, good teams always rank high in defence.

“We haven’t been ranked anywhere near a competitive level with defence and now it is so we can mix it with the big boys.”

Watson said the playing group were grasping the opportunity that had presented itself to perform on the big stage.

“The opportunity to play finals and win finals is what players want to do. To win a grand final is the dream of every player.”

“The opportunity might not come again for this group of players at the Essendon Football Club and we have no idea what is going to happen in 12 months time.

“The opportunity is here, it is now the obligation, challenge and excitement to perform for this playing group.

“The group always believes that we can win every game that we play in and that confidence gives you the ability to perform no matter what the scoreboard looks like.”

Only 18,000 public tickets remain for Saturday night’s clash against North Melbourne.

Make sure you join our Finals Fever to watch Saturday night’s blockbuster in style and comfort.