Experienced Bomber Michael Hartley says communication and leadership was a key behind Essendon’s stunning 21-point victory over Adelaide on Friday night.

The Dons surged from 30 points down late in the second term to record the famous win at Adelaide Oval, and Hartley said returning captain Dyson Heppell led the way brilliantly in front of the hostile crowd.

“The blokes around you, there were a fair few senior players around, so it’s really good,” Hartley said after the win.

“‘Hepp’ is obviously the leader out there, he takes control of that. Everyone just chips in and says two words to each other and it gets you up and going.

“It was a bit shaky there when they were a few goals in front, but we rallied and there was a lot of talk out there so it was awesome, a great win.”

Hartley’s versatility proved crucial in his first senior game since ANZAC Day last year.

The 26-year-old not only helping fill the rucking void in the absence of ill Bomber Zac Clarke, but also chiming in as a forward alongside his regular role as a key defender, finishing the game with 16 disposals (at 81.3 per cent efficiency), seven marks and three inside 50s.

“It was a bit of a different role playing a bit of ruck, a bit forward and obviously back, but it was awesome. It was good to be out there and a lot of fun, a win is always good.

“I just played my role, nothing too special, I just did what I had to do for the boys.

“We got the win and that’s all that matters.”

The Bombers laid 66 tackles – including an impressive 24 in the first term – on Friday night and Hartley said the side’s pressure on the ball helped turn the tide on the ball.

“They felt like they were going pretty well in the middle with the ruckman, but in the second half we rallied and the midfield brought a lot of pressure and we got it going forward.”

Mid-season recruit Will Snelling contributed well in his first senior game as a Bomber with 15 disposals and a goal, and Hartley was thrilled to be a part of the occasion in the new Don’s first AFL game since his debut with Port Adelaide in round 23, 2016.

“He’s been killing it in the VFL, I’ve seen it first hand, so it’s well deserved. He smacked it out there.”

Essendon’s travels again next week for a big clash with Gold Coast at Metricon Stadium on Sunday, July 28.

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