Strengths: Barnard has a tremendous work ethic and his second efforts are a highlight of his game. He chases, tackles, smothers and shepherds and is a true team player. Barnard is aggressive when attacking the ball and has a great on-field physical presence. One thing is guaranteed with Barnard - he will always give 110%.
Position: Barnard has become one of the success stories of the Bombers forward line over the past couple of seasons. In a year where the Bombers were missing scoring-power, he booted 23 goals in 2002, third behind Scott Lucas and Matthew Lloyd. Barnard will continue to be used up forward where he provides another goal scoring option to Lloyd and co. Barnard can take a strong grab and convert in high pressure situations.
2003: At 30 years, it is no secret that Barnard is closer to the end of his career than to the start. He will be looking to have another consistent year and continue to use his physical strength to hurt opposition bodies. If Barnard is used in a permanent forward role, he will want to kick at least 40 goals and add significantly to the Bombers' goal scoring power. With the influx of new players at the club, Barnard’s on-field leadership and experience will be critical to the Bombers’ success.
Sheedy says: Paul is a strong courageous player who is training extremely well. He has a great attitude to football and has been a real asset to this club since being traded from Hawthorn. But he can’t afford to drop off in any way as he will be under pressure this year from some of our younger players.
