Hawthorn Coach Alastair Clarkson says his side's effort could not be questioned in its loss to Essendon at UTAS Stadium on Sunday night.

Recording more scoring shots and inside 50s than the Bombers, Clarkson instead pointed to the Hawks' inability to convert their opportunities that ultimately cost them the four points. 

Match report: Bombers edge out gallant Hawks

"It was a good contest from go to woe," Clarkson said post-match. 

"We stopped Essendon from being able to play the way that they usually play which is pretty free-scoring.

"But we've finished with more scoring shots than they did and, ultimately, we just lacked that polish with being able to finish our good work tonight."

Watch the full press conference below.