Sam Lonergan took a step forward with his tough brand of football last season.
In his 19 games he showed his courage and strong attack on the football but clearly still has improvement in him.
Fans believe the 22-year-old can take another step in 2010 and become more consistent. His rating dropped from 6.9/10 in 2008 to 6/10 in 2009.
Watch the 2010 membership video clip by clicking here or become a member by clicking here.
2009
Games - 19
Goals - 10
Kicks - 103
Marks - 57
Handballs – 143
2009 Fan’s ranking 6.01 /10
2008
Games - 19
Goals - 9
Kicks - 134
Marks - 41
Handballs - 134
2008 Fan’s ranking 6.96/10
2007
Games - 0
Goals - 0
Kicks - 0
Marks - 0
Handballs - 0
2007 Fan’s ranking 3.66 /10
2006
Games - 1
Goals - 0
Kicks - 2
Marks - 1
Handballs - 2
2006 Fan’s ranking 3.27/10
To watch Paul Hamilton discuss Lonergan's 2009 season click here
Here's what some of the Essendon fans had to say:
A fairly consistant season from Sammy. He became one of those hard nuts who gets in and under the pack this year. I would like to see him take up the role of Jobe Watson a lot more in 2010, all in all, a fantastic season from Sam Lonergan (Joseph Attard)
Is a hard nosed player and no one can question his enthusiasm for the contest but I would say he would even acknowledge he needs to get more of the ball, will be a very good player, you know what you are going to get from him thats for sure (Daniel Hegarty)
Underrated and handy player. Had a very good year and is definately showing through. (Jonnie Gety)
A very good season, in and under with plenty of grunt and a good team man. Predict he'll be and A Grade midfielder, because he wants to be one.(Graham Flynn)
Still needs to take the next step up with his football to be able to compete with these skillful young guns coming to the club otherwise he may find himself out of favour and playing a lot of VFL (Jan Di Pietro)
This guy is an in and under player that has demonstrated to me that he is long term player at Essendon. I like his courage and tenacity. (Brad Clark)
Still improving. Had a pretty good year, still needs to work on a few areas of his game but he is a good, brave, hard young player. He will only get better and should get more chances to prove it next year (Jarrod Brewer)
Not quite the breakout year some had hoped for, but good steady progress was made, it would be great if the same progress could be made in 2010. His effort is an example to the other players each week - keep up the good work (Martin McAteer)
A little inconsistent this year, and to be honest had expected a little more from him. Perhaps I'm being hard, but its time for him to cement his spot in the 'Best 22'. Don't think he's quite there yet - needs to be quicker with his decision making, and hold his footing better (Daisy Graham)
Great season from Sam. I was very impressed with his ability to get under the packs and he did provide good running and linking up. Would love to see him kick more goals (Terri Xuereb)
Good year, but needs to lift his workrate and output. Contested possession (not including Jobe) is where we need to lift, and this is def an area Sammy can help us improve in 2010 (Andy McGree)
