Scott Lucas says the unpredictability of the Bombers forward line was a key factor in the victory over Collingwood.

Essendon won by 18 points to record its first ANZAC Day match since 2013.

The Bombers multi-pronged attack was in full flight with Orazio Fantasia kicking four goals, and Josh Green, Cale Hooker and Joe Daniher booting three each.

“I thought the unpredictability, because the goals were coming from different sources, was a really key factor in the game,” Lucas said.

“I thought [Aaron] Francis started the game well and teamed well with ‘Hooksy’ who kicked the three goals and looked a really imposing figure up forward.

"Then we had the small forwards and the pressure they applied … what we got was a really good mix from all of those players.”

Daniher was standout as he roamed across the field.

He finished with 16 disposals, eight marks, six inside 50’s and three goal assists to go with his three goals.

“He was outstanding … we just saw the versatility that he shows when he can play up forward and have multiple shots on goal early in the game and then go into the ruck,” Lucas said.

“We saw him kick a goal from a centre bounce, we saw him run down the wing and have a couple of bounces.

“I don’t think there is a player at that height that can do those sorts of things.

“We also saw him ‘selling some candy’ on the mark … all round it was a very even team performance but I think Joe just stood out from the rest.”

The backline was equally impressive for the Bombers, as the side withstood 66 inside 50’s.

Patrick Ambrose was one of the key contributors as he restricted Pies forward Darcy Moore to eight possessions and two goals.

“He [Ambrose] hasn’t been beaten all year … he doesn’t give his player any room to move and is starting to provide some rebound off the backline as well,” Lucas said.