Shaun McKernan says a change in attitude was one of the catalysts behind the Bombers big win over Collingwood in the VFL.

The Dons won by 80-points on Sunday to register their first win of the season.

McKernan was a standout across the field, finishing with 15 disposals, two goals and six marks.

“I think to be honest with you just our mindset (changed), we wanted the contest this week. Last week we were slow to react and it cost us the first half and that was pretty much the game,” McKernan said.

“We spoke about it before the game and during the week, just our mindset and being ready for the contest and doing all the values that we want to do.

“I think we did that right from the start and I don’t think it dropped off at all, probably a patch in the third quarter for like five minutes where we did and they came at us, but I think it was good we were able to respond and we came back into it again.”

Like the AFL, Essendon and Collingwood VFL sides pay tribute to those that have served their country in this annual clash held on or around ANZAC Day.

After a narrow loss in round one, McKernan said the team was keen to respond.

“It’s definitely rewarding for the boys, like I said it was disappointing after last week, we were pretty hungry for a win this week,” he said.

“Being ANZAC week, such a big occasion for both clubs, we put a lot of emphasis on that and I’m pretty happy to walk away with the win.”

Essendon’s next match is against Werribee this Saturday at Arden Street weekend.

“If we bring the right mindset, it starts with the contest and that’s what we based our game around, if we can do that every week there is no reason why we can’t be a real threat in the VFL,” McKernan said.