A breakthrough performance from Essendon defender Ben McNiece on Saturday was a prime example that hard work really does pay off.

The 26-year-old was outstanding in just his eighth senior game, gathering a career-high 21 disposals in the 29-point victory over Fremantle and making every one count with an elite efficiency of 95.2 per cent.

A key feature of McNiece’s impressive performance was his attacking intent, something he admitted has been a focal point as he strives to match dashing teammates Adam Saad and Conor McKenna.

“I think I’m pretty sound as a defensive player and I’ve been working really hard on trying to get that offensive part of my game working,” McNiece said after the win.

“You see Saady, you see Conor tearing their opposition apart – it’s nice to join in when you can.”

McNiece said he is driven by his esteemed fellow defenders who repeatedly throw their support behind the inexperienced Bomber.

“I’ve got the confidence of boys like Michael Hurley and Cale Hooker and Brendon Goddard as well (who) are All-Australian players,” he said.

“So with them around and then supporting as well with Matty Dea, it’s a pleasure to run out every week with those boys.”

Essendon squandered many opportunities in the clash, finishing with 21 behinds, but McNiece said the team was confident the rewards for its efforts would eventually come despite entering half-time with an eight-point deficit.

“The first half we sort of ground it away and at half-time we came in knowing we were on top.

“(We) couldn’t kick straight unfortunately, but broke the game apart in the last and come away with the four points.”

The crucial victory keeps the Bombers’ season alive and McNiece said he was looking forward to the next big challenge against Sydney next Friday.

“I haven’t played the Swans yet, but you’ve only got to watch them to know how hard they work, it’s obviously always a grind against them,” he said.

“If we can bring a four-quarter performance, I’m sure we can get over the top of them.”