Essendon’s elimination final exit from the 2014 finals series has become a key driver during the club’s pre-season training campaign.

The Bombers conceded 12 goals after half time against North Melbourne to be eliminated from the finals series in disappointing fashion.

Midfielder Dyson Heppell said the early exit from the finals would remain a motivating factor throughout the 2015 pre-season.

“Obviously it was a very disappointing loss and we still do think about that so it will be a driver for us that is for sure,” Heppell said.

“Going into sessions it is not really mentioned but it does get mentioned in meetings when we talk about where we fell apart in the big games and the most important games.

“It certainly does get mentioned and it is something that sits there in our minds.”

Heppell said the major focus was on handling the pressure of the big stage to remain a consistent team in any conditions.

“The main area that showed in that North Melbourne game was our consistency because our first half was outstanding and then we fell off the radar,” he said.

“We are really trying to work on putting in a four quarter effort and not fading out in games which is very important.”

Fresh from signing a new five year deal to remain at the club the 22-year-old is looking forward to watching the development of the club’s younger players in 2015.

Elliott Kavanagh, Marty Gleeson and Jackson Merrett are three youngsters that have caught the eye of their All-Australian teammate.

“I am really looking forward to seeing a few of the younger brigade that are really coming through,” Heppell said.

“One that has been a real standout has been Elliott Kavanagh who is into his fourth year at the club so he has been working hard on his fitness and training really well.”

“I think he is one to really look out for this year.”