Essendon Bombers coach Brad Scott publicly defended key defender Ben McKay after he faced jeers from fans during the team's recent match against Port Adelaide.

Despite early struggles, McKay played a crucial role in Essendon's strong defensive performance that led to their victory over Port Adelaide.

The Bombers won the match by dominating contested ball and scoring the final four goals, showcasing a significant turnaround from their previous performance.

Scott expressed pride in the team's response after a tough week, emphasizing their outstanding performance against Port Adelaide.

The team's commitment to defense improved markedly, with a notable reduction in inside 50s conceded compared to their last match.

Scott acknowledged the need for immediate improvement and expressed confidence in the team's defensive capabilities moving forward.

He highlighted that defensive breakdowns can unfairly pressure key defenders like McKay, stressing the importance of team support in defense.

McKay faced scrutiny after Port's Mitch Georgiades scored the game's first goal, which led to mixed reactions from the crowd.

Scott recognized that key defenders often bear the brunt of defensive lapses and expressed confidence in McKay's abilities as the season progresses.

Dylan Shiel returned to a midfield role, performing well with 25 touches, which was crucial after struggling in a defensive position earlier this season.

Jordan Ridley and Zach Reid supported McKay in defense, contributing to a more cohesive backline that conceded fewer marks than in earlier games.

The Bombers will have a bye week to regroup before their next match against Melbourne in Adelaide during the AFL's Gather Round.