Dashing Essendon defender Adam Saad came up against his former side for the first time since crossing to the Bombers during the 2017 Trade Period.

Saad continued his trademark run and carry from the backline, collecting 19 disposals off half-back.

Whilst the first half was a scrappy, low scoring affair, Saad said there were mixed emotions playing against his former side but the second half showed the style of play the Bombers were looking to show consistently.

“We played against my former teammates where I played for three years but we had a job to do and we came here to get the four points and we did so we are happy,” Saad said after the win.

“We didn’t play the brand of footy we know we can play so we are trying to be consistent in doing that for four quarters, and in the second half we brought the Essendon brand.

The Bombers faithful were out in full force at Metricon Stadium and the crowd support didn’t go unnoticed to the players.

“I think there were 13 or 14 thousand here and it’s good for the Essendon supporters to come out and show their support, they have been great all year and we appreciate that,” he said.

“It was a very good atmosphere tonight.”

Despite not finishing the game, Saad said he had only experienced tightness and was hopeful to be fit to take on the Fremantle Dockers at Etihad stadium next weekend.

“It was just hammy tightness, I could have gone back and played on but we just thought I should sit off for the last 15 minutes and hopefully be alright for next week.”