Coming off an impressive individual performance in the Bombers’ 33-point win over St. Kilda on Friday night, Bachar Houli says the team will continue to give their all for the remainder of the season.
“What’s most important now is to focus on the remainder of the year,” Houli said after Essendon’s recovery session on Saturday.
Touching on his individual performance, Houli viewed his stint playing for the Bendigo Bombers as an important time for him to further develop the finer points of his game.
“The positive thing out there is that my patience paid off,” Houli said.
“I went out in the VFL and did my best to prove to the coaches that I can be a better player and work on the areas that I had to improve at.
“Obviously that’s paid off and I shouldn’t stop now.”
Houli cited the intense focus on two key areas of the game which enabled the Bombers’ to limit St Kilda on the scoreboard right from the opening bounce.
“They’re a great team when they use the likes of Hayes, Montagna and Goddard, but our whole focus this week was to win the contested footy and beat them in the tackle count.
“We’ve obviously had a good winning streak against the Saints previously and I think the biggest thing is the pressure we put on them.”
While players such as Angus Monfries were helping contribute to Essendon’s scoreboard dominance, Houli was quick to acknowledge the work of the Essendon defence.
“There were huge roles to be played by trying to shut down Milne and Schneider and guys like that,” said Houli.
“It was greatly supported by the six (defenders) and it was good to see the midfielders going back to help.
“But full credit to the six or seven defenders who played their role and obviously helped us win the game.”
With other upsets occurring in recent rounds, Houli is optimistic of the Bombers’ next four games.
“I think people don’t realise (the 2010 season) is closer than what it is. You can be 12th on the ladder and put up a fight to the top 3 teams, it all comes down to dedication,” he said.
