Essendon ruckman Tom Bellchambers has praised the Bombers’ explosive start in their terrific 28-point victory over West Coast at Optus Stadium on Thursday night.

Essendon booted six goals and kept the usually high-scoring West Coast to just one behind in the opening term, setting up its fourth victory from its last five matches.

“We knew we had to start strongly, especially on the road, it’s very important,” Bellchambers said after the win.

“So to come over here and get off to a start like we did was really pleasing and that set up the game for us.”

No changes were made to the side that defeated Brisbane two weeks ago and Bellchambers said the club’s well-timed bye ensured the team could burst out of the blocks.

“We’ve had a couple of really good sessions after the bye and the boys were really freshened up and they came out firing tonight,” he said.

Bellchambers was outstanding in the victory, getting the better of star West Coast ruckman Nic Naitanui with 22 hit-outs, 13 disposals, seven crucial marks and a goal.

He said beating the Eagles – which only Sydney had previously been able to do this season – at their new home would be a big confidence booster for the group.

“Massive belief I think that builds, a massive win on the road. Our last month of footy has been really pleasing, it’s four (wins out) of the last five now,” Bellchambers said.

“So to come over here and beat the Eagles on their home ground, which is really difficult to do we’ve seen his year, (is) really pleasing.”

Bellchambers lauded the club’s passionate West Australian fan base for its support as the Bombers immediately took the home crowd out of the game.

“We’ve got a massive contingent over in the west. It’s really pleasing to get the win for them on the road as well.

“For them to come out like they do, it’s awesome. That support when we were six or seven goals up in the first quarter and they’re cheering – it almost feels like a bit of a home crowd at times.”

Essendon’s attention now turns to round 15 where it is set to face another big challenge against North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium next Sunday.