Defender Nathan Wilson says an outstanding defensive performance from Fremantle’s back six can be credited to the efforts of his teammates up the field.

Freo’s defenders seemed impenetrable at times during a 16-point victory against Essendon on Saturday night at Optus Stadium, with Wilson leading the way with 23 disposals and 11 marks.

Connor Blakely’s 30-disposal performance was up there with the best of his career, while Luke Ryan (three intercept marks) and Joel Hamling (eight spoils) often foiled the Bombers’ advances.

“I thought the pressure was great this week,” Wilson said.

“We dropped away last week against Port and that’s what we based our game on, is pressure in our front half. 

“Obviously, (the improved pressure) helped so the backs positioning was better this week. It means we can set up the way we want to set up, so the pressure up field is what you want.”

Wilson predicts Ryan, who took 12 marks with his 22 disposals and four tackles, will be a significant part of Fremantle’s future.

“He’s going to develop into a really good player,” Wilson said.

“Hopefully, we can keep him for a long time and keep developing him as a player.”

Be there for the Starlight Purple Haze! Buy your tickets to Freo's round three 'away' game here

Growing up a Freo fan, Wilson said it was great to play his first game with the Freo Faithful on his side after starting his career at GWS.

And the 25-year-old can’t wait for next Saturday, with Fremantle playing a historic ‘away’ clash at Optus Stadium against Gold Coast for the annual Starlight Purple Haze game.

“It was great, usually I’m on the opposite team so it was good to have 49,000 people here,” Wilson said.

“We’re back here next week so, hopefully, we can get even more and crack that 50 mark and get as much purple out there as we can.”