Midfielder Adam Cerra said Fremantle were left to rue their inability to capitalise from sustained periods of dominance following a seven-point loss to Essendon at Marvel Stadium.

Freo’s goalkicking was again a central issue, kicking 8.13 (61) to the Bombers’ 10.8 (68).

Cerra said Freo will use the positives as motivation ahead of next Saturday night’s clash with Sydney at Optus Stadium.

“It was disappointing but we think we have a lot of positives to take out of it,” Cerra said.

“We think we played the better footy for most of the game, we just didn’t cash in when it mattered.

“We’re looking to bounce back really strongly next week against Sydney. We’ll take a lot of positives out of the game but at the moment, we’re frustrated.”

Freo led Essendon in a number of key statistics including disposals (+3), inside 50s (+2), hitouts (+15) and clearances (+5).

But Cerra said when the game was on the line, the Bombers were able to lift.

“When it mattered…we didn’t really stand up when the heat came,” Cerra said.

“Contest is our strength, we’ll continue to build on that and look to improve next week.

“I think we were controlling the game most of the game, so if we were cashing in, we’d be in front and winning. In the contest, towards the end, we just didn’t hold up.”

Cerra impressed with 28 disposals and a goal on his return from an ankle injury but he paid tribute to his fellow mids, with fellow youngster Andrew Brayshaw continuing to dominate in the midfield with 33 touches.

“They were huge, they stand up every week. We know what we’re going to get from them,” Cerra said.

“It’s a game of 22 players playing their role and sometimes you need the weight of numbers and everyone to get it done. Those guys, in particular, have been huge this season and are massive for us.

“Sean was a big presence in the middle and he’s just getting better game by game and really gives our mids first look.”

Justin Longmuir post-match Q&A v Essendon
Match report v Essendon
Cerra's message