News

Lloyd: The time is right to retire

Wednesday, 23 September 2009
Cara Pelchen for essendonfc.com.au
Page 1 of 1

Essendon’s all-time leading goal kicker Matthew Lloyd today announced his retirement from the AFL after 15 seasons.

The 31-year-old played 270 games and kicked 926 goals since being drafted by the Bombers in 1995.

He walked through the doors of Windy Hill as a 16-year-old schoolboy and now leaves as a club legend and leading goal-kicker.

Speaking to media today, Lloyd said he knew the time was right.

“I have always been of the belief that I would rather go a year too early than a year too late and I’ve decided that now is the right time," he said.

“For me it is a celebration of the career that I have been able to have at this wonderful club over 15 seasons - it is not something that I am commiserating.

"I’ve probably had 99 percent of people saying to play on but everything kept coming back to me feeling like this was my time from a physical and mental point of view.

“The role of a forward is harder than it ever was before and if you haven’t got 100 percent hunger to commit to this great game then you won’t survive.

“I know that this choice is the best one and is a happy one."

Click here to watch Lloyd's opening retirement speech for free.

To see the full interview and Peter Jackson and media questions on Bomber.tv click here.

Lloyd was surrounded by family, friends, staff, the football department and past and current teammates for the announcement today.

He said he has been considering his playing future since mid-season adding that it isn’t a decision he has taken lightly.

“It is something I have been thinking about for a long time now," Lloyd said.

“I fought back pretty hard after tearing my hamstring off the bone and I probably thought that this would be my last contract and I have been thinking about it since early on in the season.

“I was offered a fantastic contract and was told what my role would be next year but I’ve decided that I don’t have the hunger to play anymore and it is as simple as that.

“You don’t go into a pre-season if you are fatigued mentally and physically like I am.”

The champion forward won three Coleman Medals (2000, 2002 and 2003), was named in the All-Australian side five times (1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2003) and played in the 2000 pre-season and home-and-way premierships.

Lloyd has been captain of the Bombers since late 2005 and, in a unique combination, won the AFL goal of the year in 2007 and AFL mark of the year in 2008.

To purchase tickets to the 30th September, 2009 Crichton Medal click here or to book a ticket to the annual The Long Walk - 2009 Women's Luncheon on 9th October click here.

Matthew Knights said the club will miss Lloyd on and off-field but that he respects his decision.

“Lloydy is a champion player and has fantastic values as a person - he will leave a lasting legacy at Windy Hill and will be remembered as one of the true greats of this club,” Knights said.

“We were hoping he would continue playing in 2010 but he believes that the time is right to retire and we respect his decision.”

The club is currently considering a number of options recognize Lloyd's contribution to the Essendon Football Club and give the fans a chance to say farewell.

To leave a special message for Matthew Lloyd click here.

Your comments

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Losing Lucas, Lloyd and Lovett has left a huge gap in experience at the club. Very disappointing news!

- Stefan Hruszowski (posted 23/09/2009 11:10:43 AM)

Champion of our club and the game. Thanks Lloydy. 18 to Hurley?

- Nathan Beever (posted 23/09/2009 11:22:43 AM)

lloyd you should have played 1 more year and finished with 100 goals. when your 80 years old you would have wished you played 1 more year. bad decision.

- Joe Tullio (posted 23/09/2009 11:22:46 AM)

Congrats Lloydy on a great 15 seasons!!! We are gonna miss you at Essendon!!!

- Belinda Purves (posted 23/09/2009 11:25:26 AM)

An absolute Champion. Lloydy the team man til the end. I remember you starting as a 16 year old playing against Jako in a final when he was at his peak, the 100th goal against North in the final, the Mark and Goals of the year, the 13 goal game against the Swans, the hit against Sewell, the bump with you and Juddy when he didn't get up and you did. The strong leads and marks. You will be remembered as a legend of this club.

- Thomas Dougherty (posted 23/09/2009 11:34:56 AM)

A Sad, Sad day. I would have preferred that you play on, particularly having the suspension hanging over your. I commenced supporting EFC after having seen John Coleman in action, you have made my choice worthwhile, thank you.

- Graham Edgar (posted 23/09/2009 11:35:27 AM)

Well done Lloyd for the many great memories you have left for me and the many fans that follow this great club.Before a small number say he was pushed listen to Lloyds press conference carefully.If you still think their is a fracture at the club & he was made to leave then think you will be calling Lloyd a liar,which he is not.I didnt want him to leave but listening to him I understand why he has retired.If he didnt want to retire he would go to another club but he is not.You are a champion of the EFC.Diane

- Diane Trask (posted 23/09/2009 11:38:06 AM)

In this day & age loyalty & contribution does not mean anything.Lloyd has so much of talent left that he is still good for another two seasons with which ever club he chooses.

- Winston D'Cruz (posted 23/09/2009 11:38:06 AM)

A wonderful example of how tough, hard football should be played. So many great memories! All the best Lloydy in whatever you pursue!

- Bradley Burns (posted 23/09/2009 11:39:27 AM)

Well done Matthew, congratulations on a fine career - hope you can have some influence on the new blokes coming through. Glad to see you were (and are) a one club man

- Tony Hayward (posted 23/09/2009 11:39:54 AM)

Thanks for many years of great footy Matty! Forever a Essendon great

- Tim Brodie (posted 23/09/2009 11:40:51 AM)

Sad to see you go,I believe it is the wrong decision but respect your right to make it. I have seen all the champions since late 50's and you are right up there. I also believe that if given unequivocal support then you would have stayed. I am retired now but was in business where we were taught how to manage people out when we had perceived problem. It is system where you are made to feel uncomfortable in your current role. This is what has happened to you. I refused to do this and had to retire early.

- Ron Mercer (posted 23/09/2009 11:41:23 AM)

The loss of Lucas and Lloyd will leave a huge gap in experience at the club. All the more reason to retain Lovett!

- Stefan Hruszowski (posted 23/09/2009 11:55:39 AM)

As sad as it is,i`m looking forward to next year,think Hurley would look great with 18 on his back & Hille spending more time up in front of goals would be great, with Ryder causing chaos in the ruck & mid.Also Pears strong def/skills down back with Dustin not to mention the pace of Dem & Atka running through the lines + many more positives,I think this great club can still improve next year,all the best Lloydy,..champ!

- mawby Ian (posted 23/09/2009 12:00:06 PM)

Very sad end to the year when Essendon loses Lloyd, Lucas and Lovett in one year. Things will look very different next year. I'm glad Hurley's name doesn't start with an "L".

- Andrew Dunsy (posted 23/09/2009 12:00:36 PM)

Matthew Lloyd. You are and will always be a champion. We will all miss you. Your retiring speech was a credit to you and I hope it will put to rest the scuttlebut that has been thrown around this blog. All the best for the future and I hope we will see you around the club whne you have had a good rest. and, Diane- thanks a heap for your balanced comments. Go Bombers!!!

- Ron Lay (posted 23/09/2009 12:00:53 PM)

I believe you Matthew Lloyd. You have always come across as an honest and direct man. Unfortunately there are others who will not believe your reasons for retiring or will twist your words to fit their agenda. Ignore them as I do.

- Jeff Forster (posted 23/09/2009 12:01:20 PM)

now with lloyd, lucas and lovett gone we will need some of our players to lift. we will need neagle to develop so that he can play up forward and also gumbleton. this is who i would have in my forward line. davey neagle jetta monfries hurley houli or reimers there may be others but at the moment this is what i can think of.

- Patrick Esposito (posted 23/09/2009 12:01:25 PM)

we will also need burgoyne as we will need a good midfield. donnot swap jason laycock coz we will need good ruck work. people are saying swap jetta but you cannot. go on youtube and look him up. he has courage by playign with a torn hamstring. and also watch when he played under 18s he can also play on the ball. with houli when he was first recruited he was a forward so why are we playing him down back?? reimers keep him as he is a good wingmen and also in forward he also goes in hard for the ball.

- Patrick Esposito (posted 23/09/2009 12:01:45 PM)

All you people leaving your selfish comments about "Lloyd should have played on", ought to remember how lucky Essendon have been to have had such a champion. A little respect please.

- David Larkin (posted 23/09/2009 12:08:14 PM)

I'm going to miss you Lloydy...who is going to throw up a tuft of grass now? It's been a pleasure watching you play all these years. You have been my favourite player since the very first game I ever watched almost 12 years ago (I'm from overseas) and always will be. You're a hero to my kids and it will break their hearts when I tell them...not looking forward to that. Good luck for the future. An Essendon legend forever! :(

- Natasja Henry (posted 23/09/2009 12:09:38 PM)

Thank you so much for 15 magnificent seasons Lloydy, I wish you happiness and success in whatever you pursue. I will never forget you as a player it was a privilidge to watch you. Hope you maintain contact with our great club thanks again Matty you are a true CHAMPION.

- Gwenda Warfe (posted 23/09/2009 12:16:49 PM)

Thanks for all the great memories, Lloydy. The Essendon forward line will be a much less exciting place to watch without you in it. You were my boyhood idol and I wish you all the best in life after footy.

- Matt Pocock (posted 23/09/2009 12:19:02 PM)

Knights has a lot to answer for at EFC. And in only two years. Lucas, Lloyd, Lovett and who knows which other players are disgruntled with him. Am I the only one that can see he eroding our great club??? And fast. Look what he did to the Port Adelaide Magpies, the Bendigo Bombers and now my beloved EFC. DESTRUCTION is all he knows. Came from a losing culture at Richmond and has now carried it on to us. Just can't wait for the headline on this site announcing his departure. Thanks for nothing super coach Knighta. Bring back EFC people asap. Regards Ivar.

- Ivar Biggen (posted 23/09/2009 12:19:11 PM)

Congratulations Matthew on a great career and for making a selfless and timely decision to retire. It is sad that you did not have a proper farewell game, but at least you can look back on your last game as a terrific Bomber win rather than the debacle in Adelaide. You were never ging to be part of the next Essendon premiership (2-3 seasons away) and we can now concentrate on forming the forward structure that will win it for us. The idea that you would kick 70 next season to reach 1000 was always just romantic nonsense.

- Ian Moore (posted 23/09/2009 12:19:39 PM)

Thanks for the memories Lloydy, your the best kick for goal ive ever seen, and it will take something special for someone to ever overtake you!!! Hille for Captain!!! and i hope Knights knows what hes doing gettin rid of Lloyd Lucas and Lovett, because if he doesnt he will be the next person to go!! If he doesnt win 12-14games next year its time to move him on!! Maybe we should all barrack for the saints this week coz if the saints win maybe Thommo could come back for 2011

- Travis Cusack (posted 23/09/2009 12:22:50 PM)

Can't say that I agree wholeheartedly with the decision as I believe Lloydy had one more season left in him! We all recognised that it probably would not have been at the lofty standards that we have consistently expected of Matthew over the years but he still would have made a handy contribution in 2010 in several ways! Good luck with retirement but I just wish we had a year to celebrate your excellent career and contribution to Essendon and AFL just like Hirdy!

- David Steinberg (posted 23/09/2009 12:27:53 PM)

see even the captain is getting out of there good one knights

- Brett Martin (posted 23/09/2009 12:28:23 PM)

Awesome Career Lloydy one of the best players to walk in to windy hill always will be great to see your a team team player for loyal your a champion for that

- Michael Debinski (posted 23/09/2009 12:32:01 PM)

How dare anyone suggest that Lloyd's decision is a "bad decision"? Only Matthew Lloyd can make this decision - it is his life, his body, and decision. And to Matthew - as a lifelong Essendon supporter, I will never forget the amazing array of memories you have brought into the history of this great club. Thanks for everything, and enjoy your well-earned retirement.

- Michael Wyres (posted 23/09/2009 12:33:04 PM)

"I always felt that, uh, I had another 12 months in me..." hence the early guilty plea in the Sewell incident. If Lloydy was actually comtemplating retirement, wouldnt he have fought the decision...its a no risk (win/win) situation. I honestly think there is more to the story. Congratulations to Matthew Knights, another one bites the dust...first Lucas, then Lovett now Lloydy! When will the carnage stop!

- Ozzie Yildiz (posted 23/09/2009 12:34:40 PM)

To those Bomber supporters who are emotionally distraught today at hearing the news about Lloydie retiring,my heartfelt sympathy to you all. As one of many supporters who have been around to experience hundreds of our players, (many of them Champions of the game like Matthew) make the same decision,it is of no great surprise the outpouring of disappointment amongst us. Nevertheless,not only do I feel Matthew made the correct decision,but his timing was spot on too with the drafts on the horizon as well. END pt 1...

- Noel Shields (posted 23/09/2009 12:41:47 PM)

Ctd pt 2.… Being the responsible leader that he was, he also must have realised that the forward line next year was going to be very potent with names like Ryder/Hille/Neagle/Monfries/Laycock/Gumbleton/Mc Veigh/ and a lad by the name of Hurley plus numerous other rotations,Matthew in all honesty might have held back the whole process of further achievements and results if his body was not spot on. Thank you Matthew from the bottom of my heart for your career and achievements. Enjoy your time with your lovely family,a fitting reward for years of sacrifices… David Hille might need the year to rebuild his confidence and fitness base,so Mark Mc Veigh should and deserves to be our Captain in 2010.

- Noel Shields (posted 23/09/2009 12:43:17 PM)

Thanks for great memories Lloydy.........would have loved you to stay o but respect your decision 100%!! Good luck for the future but please consider staying involved at EFC so the club's much-envied culture continues to be nurtured.

- Peter Podgornik (posted 23/09/2009 12:45:31 PM)

Thanks for a wonderful career Matty. You are a champion of the game.

- Simon Remington (posted 23/09/2009 12:51:32 PM)

Congratulations on a Super Career Thanks for all the memories (the goals marks and kicks and leadership) loved watching you play. All the best for you and your family. Your record is awersome..

- Darryl Behrendorff (posted 23/09/2009 12:51:47 PM)

Love the way some of you supporters know Lloyds body better than he does.A small number of you either want players to stay that dont want to.(it happens at all clubs)Ageing players to play on that are either great players but know the game is becoming to fast for them,players that know with all their injuries and everything else you still want them to play on.We should just exit the AFL and put the club in a league like a legends league then you would be all happy.Diane

- Diane Trask (posted 23/09/2009 12:55:23 PM)

THANKS FOR THE GREAT MEMORIES LLOYDY AND FOR MAKING US SUPPORTERS PROUD. YOU HAVE DONE OUR CLUB A GREAT SERVICE OVER MANY YEARS. TIME FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF STARS TO SHINE THROUGH! IF IT WAS UP TO MOST OF THESE PEOPLE YOU AND LUCAS WOULD BE PLAYING UNTIL YOU COULDNT WALK. IF LOVETT IS TRYING TO MAKE ULTIMATEMS THEN I AM GLAD TO SEE THE BACK OF HIM ALSO. CHAMPION LLOYDY, YOURSELF HIRD AND LUCAS ARE THE END OF AN ERA.

- craig hitchcock (posted 23/09/2009 12:55:25 PM)

thanks for the memories matty u were a fantastic player and u r up there with hird i will miss u so much u r the champion and i will never forget u

- krystal parker (posted 23/09/2009 12:55:38 PM)

Congratulations on a great career,unselfish decision,always a club champion.Sott Lucas & Matt Lloyd will be hard to replace,but have seen Essendon through a successfull era & will go down in history as one of the bestforward combinations in the AFL.All the best to both with what ever the future brings.

- andrew bryce (posted 23/09/2009 12:58:50 PM)

if your surname starts with L at efc, be afraid , be very afraid.

- Charlie Monforte (posted 23/09/2009 12:59:13 PM)

Thank you Matthew Lloyd a true champion of the game and not least of all an Essendon champion. Your leadership will be missed by us all. Best of Luck to you and your family for the future and don't be a stranger at the club!!Cheers Lloydy

- Helen Scully (posted 23/09/2009 1:00:30 PM)

Already posted my say in this special forum for Matthew's announcement feedback..but the inevitable post was sadly noticed...so JUST GOTTA REPLY ONCE MORE TO the "guru" (NOT!!)...Just can't BELIEVE ivar you would choose this forum for Matthew Lloyd tributes,to once again mouth off about another subject,close to your heart,no doubt. I look forward to the headline "Knights Leads Bombers To Premiership" to FINALLY SHUT YOU WHINGERS UP...

- Noel Shields (posted 23/09/2009 1:02:02 PM)

Thank you Lloydy for everything. Your name is among the immortals of the game. I remember when you came to Ballarat as a first year player even then you were polite and well mannered and seemed destined for big things. I would loved to have seen you run around for ever but all good things must come to an end. You deserve all the accolades that come your way. Best of luck for the future. Always a Bomber! Go Bombers

- Nathan Crocker (posted 23/09/2009 1:04:15 PM)

Thank you Lloydy for 15 years of fantastic memories and for your unwavering loyalty to the mighty Essendon Football Club. Enjoy your well earned retirement with your family. From the Bell family in Perth, WA.

- Chloe Bell (posted 23/09/2009 1:04:36 PM)

Thanks heaps Lloydy for everything that you have done for the red and black. A great champion of our club and will allways be one of the true greats of the AFL forever. Come back as coach one day Lloydy, we would love that.

- Cory Williams (posted 23/09/2009 1:05:01 PM)

Mawby Ian you could not have said it any better.I also agree with everything thing you said.I also think we can improve on this year as well.People dont forget we won games without Lloyd Lucas & Lovett so the future is not that bleak.Someone said DESTRUCTION is all he know,yes I agree.Ivar you are a weed and you are trying to posion the club and the fans,you are a destructive little weed and while you are on this site your posion will stay.Diane

- Diane Trask (posted 23/09/2009 1:07:40 PM)

I'm going to miss you Matty, please PLEASE bring out a biography!!!

- Kymmy Hinton (posted 23/09/2009 1:07:46 PM)

Lloydy is an absolute champion. Lloyd will alway be remembered as a player who kept Essendon in games when the midfield was not winning the ball much because he made the most of every opportunity he got. Best of luck, and don't be too far away from the Essendon Footy Club

- Mark Grant (posted 23/09/2009 1:09:44 PM)

Congratualtions Matthew Lloyd. A superstar player and person! The boy from Avondale Heights became a Legend of the the Essendon FC & AFL. Well done on a stupendous career. Regards Stef

- Stefano Boscaglia (posted 23/09/2009 1:11:25 PM)

And one final post today for Ivar & Brett Martin,real real Essendon souls.. NOT!! Here is a repeat of words spoken by Matthew Lloyd today.... "“I see nothing but a bright future for Matthew Knights and the football club and I want nothing more than to see Matthew coach the club to a winning final next year. I will be one of the happiest blokes being there to see that."" Now to help your own arguments/opinions,you gonna say "he's lying"/"Been told to say that"/"He's an idiot to say that".... JUST GROW UP YOU TWO W......

- Noel Shields (posted 23/09/2009 1:12:55 PM)

Did anyone listen to SEN.A essendon supporter had taken his kid to the hall of fame at the time of Lloyds press conference and was allowed to go.He said before he went in he thought it was a bad decision if Lloyd retired and it was knights that is pushing him out.He came out thinking the opposite and now believes that it was Lloyds decisions to retire.Well done to stand up and say he was wrong.Diane

- Diane Trask (posted 23/09/2009 1:13:05 PM)

Honestly Ivar is their a brain in your head? Lucas hadn't performed well all year, Lloyds form was up and down and Lovett is a loose canon. His form was on the wain toward the end of the year. I'm sad to think that someone doesn't want to play for the Bombers but his best fit is elsewhere and while he still has great trade value lets get some one decent for him. Knights is our coach and we played finals this year, GET OVER IT.

- Nathan Crocker (posted 23/09/2009 1:15:40 PM)

Part 2: Sheedy was a Richmond player and Hird is not ready to coach so who do you suggest? Tim Watson maybe? Darren Bewick? Neale Daniher? I'm wrapped we have Knights. GO BOMBERS

- Nathan Crocker (posted 23/09/2009 1:16:29 PM)

thanks for 15 great years Lloydy a true champion still think Hurley FF and Ryder CHF is our best line up.Neagle at least 2 years away from his best . PS,still think Lloydy had a gentle nudge . Go Bombers for 2010

- Neil Missen (posted 23/09/2009 1:27:38 PM)

I am very sad that lloydy is retiring but understand that it was his decision and he made the right one for himself and his family and i think people who are saying it was wrong should just shut up, how would they know. I am going to miss watching him play but hopefully he will have a break from footy and then come back to essendon in some form. well done lloydy you are a very smart footballer and will always be remembered as an essendon great.

- Ruby Cox (posted 23/09/2009 1:32:23 PM)

Thank you Matty for 15 years of awesomeness. Thank you Matty for playing for the Bombers, you are a legend and will be sorely missed.

- Joe Sakac (posted 23/09/2009 1:32:37 PM)

Fair comment on Mc Veigh and choice David Husk with Jobe,the EFC will not lose appointing him... It's just a feeling supporters like me have,that it might just be all that Spike needs to "respond" in the right manner,turn everything around for him.. He is "emotional Essendon" thru and thru,he won't need to be told about his faults... like you say,time will tell :-)

- Noel Shields (posted 23/09/2009 1:37:00 PM)

Absolute champion Matthew l would have liked you to play again but respect your decision.It's very sad for all supporters as we have lost 2 champions in Lloyd and Lucas but still have fletch to guide the younger players.I hope the club recruits an experienced forward for insurance for 1 or 2 years.We need someone to help the youngsters out maybe look at Jones from North or even Robertson from Melbourne.They don't need to play every game and they can help our young forwards.

- PETER DAVIES (posted 23/09/2009 1:40:06 PM)

Part 1: THANK YOU MATTY FOR THE YEARS OF ENJOYMENT YOU HAVE GIVEN US. What a Champion Lloydy is, was and always will be in the eyes of the true EFC faithful. Lloydy has once again put the team before his own personal goals and has retired gracefully on his own terms. Thankfully the majority of supporters see it this way and have actually understood Mathews retirement speech. Sad but inevitable that this was going to happen just like we lost Hirdy last year. Lucas this year and ultimatley Fletch (another sad day when that happens).

- Alan De Menezes (posted 23/09/2009 1:46:19 PM)

Part 2: Thankfully there are the minority who look at this event negatively. You have to realise that all good things must come to an end. Fortunatley we have started a new era and the future is looking bright moving forward. So all you Matthew Knight bashers get over it and lets pull together os one towards are next premiership.

- Alan De Menezes (posted 23/09/2009 1:50:01 PM)

OK Ivar, so much venom and hate for our coach; so what was it, did he give you a hiding in the playground one day, beat you to the ball in the Colts, made it to the highest leel of the game and you didn't. Thier's got to be more to your dislike of our coach than your opinion as a tru blue (?) Bomber supporter!!! Give us the real deal and while your at it, why don't you name your best 22, if you can find 22 off our list that are worthy of your praise, hang on, now that I think of it, I can't recall you giving any praise?

- Frank Cowell (posted 23/09/2009 2:06:17 PM)

Noel Shields surely you are joking or deluded? A "potent forward line" next year with Laycock (never been fit or any good), Gumbleton (has never played), Neagle (never been fit) and McVeigh (comong off a very poor 2009 and far too undisciplined to ever be captain). I don't think so.

- Geoff Cliff (posted 23/09/2009 2:24:12 PM)

Thankyou Matthew for giving us so much enjoyment. We are in NSW & the first time my family saw you play in '95 you became a favourite. In '02 youngest daughter went to EOY netball day as "Bomber" Barbie complete with long blonde wig & 18 on her back, at 12 she could already choose her sports heroes well! We love the way you play the game. Your actions not just your words show us your love for EFC. Great player, Great captain, Great man, Ultimate Bomber. Good luck in your future & on the birth of a second beautiful daughter.

- Diane Hunter (posted 23/09/2009 2:28:57 PM)

THAT'S GREAT NEWS, NOW THAT LLOYD AND LUCAS ARE GONE THE CLUB WILL MOVE FORWARD IN LEAPS AND BOUNDS AND YOU WILL BE HEARING A LOT MORE FROM ME. REGARDS BOBBY

- Bob Cooling (posted 23/09/2009 2:39:14 PM)

Just watching some old tapes, what a forward line Lucas, Lloyd and Hird, unbeatable. I have never seen anyone mark at full pace like you did and finish it off as well. Poetry in motion. My grandson is heartbroken with your retirement as will be many grandsons and sons. A champion role model on and off the field which made Essendon stand out from other clubs. Good luck with whatever you choose to do, media etc.

- Ron Mercer (posted 23/09/2009 2:45:38 PM)

Matthew has made the only decision he could make given the shabby way the coaches have treated him. sometimes you have to play for today not tomorrow. that said he's had a great career and will make a success of whatever is next. another in a long line of great Essendon captains. the next one (Watson or Hille for mine) will continue a strong tradition at our club. well done Lloydy.

- Trevor Blainey (posted 23/09/2009 3:20:35 PM)

MATTHEW YOU ARE AND WILL ALWAYS BE A SUPER SUPERSTAR

- Darryl Behrendorff (posted 23/09/2009 3:35:05 PM)

Lloyd ... a great champion of the club and the AFL. Watching # 18 over the years has provided many memorable games. In the latter part of your career, your aggression was so important in many games / the goals were a bonus. The last game of the season against the Hawks was a ripper. Your aggression lifted the players to new heights thus paving the way for our victory and entering the 2009 FINALS............

- Victor Tallis (posted 23/09/2009 3:38:27 PM)

Can't say whether they will make it/succeed Geoff Cliff,just like you can't say they won't..the potential is there,and while they remain at the club,hope is there too...Joking? No.. Deluded? Maybe,but if they do improve next year and create havoc on the way to the finals,then will you be supporting them and remembering your 2009 judgement on them? I back up what i say by having a public profile,i can't confirm the support and love for the EFC any better than that...

- Noel Shields (posted 23/09/2009 4:11:56 PM)

Mate i wish you all the best it a shame you miss your 1000 goals record i all remember when you kicked you 100 i thank you so much for the years mate our club is the number 1 we miss you LLOYD wot would our club do with out you over the years

- MARK JONES (posted 23/09/2009 4:18:31 PM)

absolute champion lloydy! Thanks for your loyalty to the club and all the great memories you have provided throughout your career which i have followed and admired since day 1.

- simon debono (posted 23/09/2009 4:30:54 PM)

Good call Matty.

- Matt Dawson (posted 23/09/2009 4:58:32 PM)

Thnks matty for a great 15 years, understand a bit of emotion about Loyd and Lucas leaving, I was one of Scott's biggest supporters, especially when he returned this year, but good things can't last forever and I would rather see these 2 champs retire gracefully now, will be hard to get a game in this forward line next year.Hate to bag any player but I don't think Lovett has the right attitude and probably best for all he leaves, could be a champ but hasn't got the mindset(hope for andy he will prove me wrong).

- anastasia Meek (posted 23/09/2009 5:03:36 PM)

Champion, Legend, Gentleman and friend to all. A huge loss to our club but I can understand his desire to not do another pre-season. Goo Luck mate and all the best for your future in the media and finally getting the chance to see your kids alot more.

- Chris Beer (posted 23/09/2009 5:26:52 PM)

'LLOYDY' - I will miss yelling that when you took one of your fantastic marks or the Lloydy chant when you were going for goal. I suppose all good things must come to an end. Thanks for the privilege of watching you play! Kids everywhere will be throwing grass in the air when going for goal for years to come..... True inspiration and true champion!!

- Leanne Butterworth (posted 23/09/2009 6:06:44 PM)

very hard decision on our new captain i say its down to 5 watson maybe but still not in the top 20 mids in the comp so doubt it,spike is too self centered,welshe would be ok but might struggle for a game which leaves only fletch and hille let them co-captain while gumby and hurls become superstars and take it from them thats my opinion anyway thats if im allowed one.

- Brett Martin (posted 23/09/2009 6:45:07 PM)

thanks 4 ALL THE MEMORIES LLOYD YOU ARE A TRUE CHAMPION AND A ROLE MODEL 2 ME. GOODLUCK FOR THE FUTURE

- Cohlby Giblett (posted 23/09/2009 7:03:05 PM)

Knights your a joke lloyd did not retire he was pushed too. Wake up essendon and see knights for what he really is A FAKE

- daniel WESSLEY (posted 23/09/2009 7:10:01 PM)

Gee Noel and Diane could get married and become Mr. and Mrs. Muppett. Regards Ivar.

- Ivar Biggen (posted 23/09/2009 7:36:45 PM)

Lloydy your a lengend... but i wanted to see you kick 1000 goals :(

- Jess Douglas (posted 23/09/2009 8:05:16 PM)

Thank you, Lloydie, for the fifteen years of wonderful service you've given the Bombers. You will always be remembered as a champion player, taking those lunging marks on the lead and kicking lots of goals, but also as a champion person, modest, selfless, and with a team-first attitude right to the end. Watched and listened to the press conference today. Great speech, including acknowledging Sheeds for how he impacted and influenced your footy career. Clearly, far more than Knights did, even though you have a strong coach-player relationship with him.

- Maranatha Sao-Mafiti (posted 23/09/2009 8:13:51 PM)

Have to agree with DARRYL BEHRENDORFF. THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES MATTY.

- steve christensen (posted 23/09/2009 8:42:05 PM)

Champion of this club that has clearly been forced to retire. its ashame because he had at least 1 goood year of football left in him. I am seriously considering not buying a membership until Knights is gone

- Tom Fraser (posted 23/09/2009 8:42:14 PM)

Where was the coach when one of the clubs greatest players retires, what a disgrace he had to be there and wasn't.

- Wayne Purcell (posted 23/09/2009 9:01:39 PM)

I am very sad, broke my heart. I was 12 when Lloyd first started his football career, and has been an absolute champion of this club. He will missed out there. I wish him all the very best for the future. I'll miss you Matty.

- Samantha Kisielis (posted 23/09/2009 9:17:34 PM)

Lloydy, you've been a class act. Always sad to see great players go but I think you've got it right. That damn hammy cut at least a couple of years off your career - changed your kicking action slightly and slowed down your leads just enough to make it easier for your opponent to spoil. One thing I am disappointed about though - you won't get a chance to knock Campbell Brown's head off next time we play that mob!! We'll have to get David (Hille)on the job!!

- Des Ivins (posted 23/09/2009 9:18:15 PM)

thanx matty, words can't express the way we all feel about you and your sevice to the club,you will be missed badly 'not only as a great footballer but also a great person in general, lloyd-lucas- rama- 2 johnnos-hirdy what end of such a great era....

- Darren Pigott (posted 23/09/2009 9:19:00 PM)

Matty thanks for all the great memories. Would have liked you to get to the 1000 goal mark. Here's wishing you & your family all the best for the future. THANKS MATE

- Jeff Skinner (posted 23/09/2009 10:11:28 PM)

noel TIME YOU COOK MUMS TEA INSTEAD OF POSTING SILLY COMMENTS HERE. SUCH AS OUR GREAT FORWARD LINEFEATURING NEAGLE AND GUMBY WHO HAVKICKD ABOUT 10 GOALS BETWENN THEM IN 3 YERS. YEAH REAL POTENT FORWARD LINE. JUST LIKE BENDIGO!!

- rob davies (posted 23/09/2009 10:14:35 PM)

... ... ... ...i just cried. we dont have a designated goal kicker any more really. no offence neagle and co. ill miss you lloyd. you and your school-boy appearance. now who will step up to throw the grass?

- Curtis Alcroft (posted 23/09/2009 10:17:34 PM)

Matthew Lloyd a true champion!! Thanks for all the great memories. You have been an inspiration, defintely going to miss you mate!! All the best for the future.

- Anthony Savva (posted 23/09/2009 11:00:51 PM)

Matty Lloyd can you inspire and motivate our players to put in a big pre-season and set themselves up for a power charged 2010 season?

- Richard Hayward (posted 23/09/2009 11:01:42 PM)

Champion. Well done on a brilliant career

- Nicholas McHattie (posted 23/09/2009 11:15:39 PM)

All the best Lloydy! Thanks for everything you have done for our club as a player, spokesman, captain and all round lovely guy. Love your shorts, your grass throwing, you're the most VERSATILE full forward I have ever seen in watching AFL/VFL for more than 25 years. You set a standard I hope our future players can follow. Always tackling, always running, always helping out wherever necessary, you are truly a great captain. I am so sad you're leaving but glad in the knowledge you retire as a "one club man" that is you, all class! I hope you go into the media, you're very good at that too. Best Wishes, Jan.

- JAN STOTT (posted 23/09/2009 11:43:50 PM)

Yeah well done Knightsy, so whoz next? Lucas, Lovett, Lloyd ......

- Frank Legudi (posted 24/09/2009 12:11:29 AM)

Matthew Lloyd our captain you will be sadly missed, you are and will be the best goal kicker for the mighty red and black, our memories will be of a strong, loyal, proud and honest man, you played your football as would a true ANZAC, always committed to the task at hand, you were the first bomber football hero my two boys got to meet, get a photo and a autograph from, you made my family so happy, the autograph's still to the day take pride hanging in my boys bedrooms, may your future have as much success, thanks Matthew.

- Philip Martin (posted 24/09/2009 9:25:25 AM)

Ron Mercer = Very wise man. What you said about business and managing people out. I see it too. It's written all over Lloydy's face. I'm waiting to see the press conference where it will be even more obvious as I've only seen a brief clip of it, but it's terribly obvious. The eyes tell a thousand words. But well done Lloydy. You're a champion of the game and will always be remembered as such. We know what you're going through and you have our support.

- Travis Vandermeer (posted 24/09/2009 12:16:19 PM)

Congratulatios Matthew, 15 wonderful seasons, thanks for the memories, all the very best for the future.

- Nick Tomaras (posted 24/09/2009 1:06:58 PM)

You're welcome to your opinion Rob,but when it comes to silly comments you take the cake..So if the players mentioned get their bodies right for the AFL,like Jobe had to,you'll be another one who will stick to your guns and not support them if they succeed,you a Bomber "supporter" Rob? Try to keep the kitchen out of the argument,that's the sort of stuff ole airhead Ivar would say.

- Noel Shields (posted 24/09/2009 1:11:50 PM)

Has a better family feel to it than you and Steve Rendevski,hope you don't want to have a family together... :-(

- Noel Shields (posted 24/09/2009 3:29:38 PM)

Get your facts right before you type Rob Davies. Neagle has kicked 19 goals this year ya silly fella. If Gumby stays fit and not injured, Neagle improves some more, Hurley as a permanent forward (maybe rotate with fletch), Laycock given a try, it might not be as bad as you think.

- Cory Williams (posted 24/09/2009 11:40:18 PM)

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