Fletcher relishes the leadership challenge
In front of a crowd of over 80,000, Essendon’s own warrior defender Dustin Fletcher, kept the opposition goalless as Australia defeated Ireland to retain the Cormac McAnaller Cup at Croke Park last week. Putting on an electric performance as the Australian goal keeper, Fletcher denied the Irish of any scoring opportunity in the match on Sunday, spurred on by the Grand Final-like ambience.

Limited opportunities for Cartledge
Fans felt that Tristan Cartledge lacked opportunities this year and in turn contributed to the young ruckman being de-listed from the Bombers. Cartledge, in his fourth season in the red and black, played only three games in 2006 and found it difficult to establish himself as a prominent rucking figure.

Fans share Lloyd’s year of frustration
It was a frustrating year for Matthew Lloyd who was forced to spend much of his first year as Essendon captain watching from the sidelines due to a season-ending injury in Round 3. After storming out of the blocks in Round 1, kicking an impressive eight goals against the reigning premiers, the hamstring injury came as a shattering blow.

Johns a player of the future
Finally revealing what he is capable after a hard-fought battle with injury, Courtney Johns showed Bomber fans he was worth the wait in 2006. A positive to come out of a tough year, Johns answered his critics providing a strong target up forward. One of the biggest improvers of the year, Johns proved he can deliver, as his fan ranking jumped from 3.31 to 5.72.

Johnson puts trade week behind him
It was a super fit and focussed Jason Johnson who has won the 3.2km time trial around Princes Park this morning. A group of nine players completed the time trial with Johnson’s time of 10 minutes 50 seconds the best at the club this pre-season.

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