The return of explosive utility player Elliot Yeo has been a key factor in the improved performances from the Eagles in the last fortnight.

He was probably the Eagles’ best against Geelong last week and again deserved that tag last night.

A premiership midfielder, he has returned to where it all started in defence. His vigour and dash have been inspiring and has seen the Eagles generate strong and penetrating run from the back half.

Yeo, an all-Australian defender in 2017, is a competitive beast and his power has been important, particularly his ability to kick beyond the defensive set up of the opposition with his booming right foot.

He had 20 possessions against Essendon, six of them contested, took eight marks and gained a game-high 586 metres with the ball in his hands.

His teammates walk taller with him imposing himself on the game, encouraging them to also play with a bit more dare.