Essendon are heating up, but coach John Worsfold knows they are still up against it in their bid to gatecrash the finals.
The Bombers looked like a spent force after crashing to a 2-6 record earlier this season, with Worsfold's position even questioned at the time.
But four wins from their past five games have catapulted Essendon (6-7) back in the finals picture.
Essendon were irresistible early in Thursday's 28-point win over West Coast in Perth, opening up a 50-1 lead at one stage.
Jake Stringer booted three goals in the opening quarter before being hindered by a leg injury, while fellow recruit Devon Smith tallied 23 disposals and three goals.
The Bombers will be aiming to continue their hot run of form when they take on fellow finals contenders North Melbourne at Etihad Stadium next week.
Worsfold has been thrilled with his team's improved form over the past five weeks, but says they have little room for error in their bid to make the finals.
Essendon are in 12th spot - a win and percentage adrift of the top eight.
"Our chances of making the eight are less than the teams already in the eight," Worsfold said.
"They have to do less to make it than we do. We've got to do out part, which is keep winning games.
"We want to become a team that is capable of winning the premiership and we still have a lot to learn and work on.
"Belief is pretty strong - when we are playing our best footy, we can compete with the best teams in the comp."
The Bombers will be sweating on injuries to Stringer (leg), Josh Green (foot), and Mason Redman (ankle).
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