Star Bomber Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti did his remarkable reputation no harm in another strong season in 2019.

Skilful, courageous, athletic and intelligent, McDonald-Tipungwuti is one of the most widely respected players in the game and some sensational efforts only enhanced his position as a fan favourite.

A genuine entertainer, McDonald-Tipungwuti was a goal of the week nominee three times (across two rounds), succeeding on both occasions and taking a position as a finalist for the Coates Hire Goal of the Year. He also added a mark of the week nomination for good measure and claimed two 2019 AFL Fan Awards (Fan Favourite and Clutch Play). 

He finished one shy of leading goalkicker Jake Stringer with 32 goals to claim second spot at the club, while he continued to show his innate ability to bring his teammates into the game to close out the season leading the way for average goal assists (0.8). 

But it’s also his defensive work that often stands out, with McDonald-Tipungwuti using his elite closing speed to finish the year leading the club for average tackles inside 50 (1.6) and finishing fifth for average pressure acts (20) and tackles (4.3).

KEY STATS

Games: 23

Goals: 32

Average disposals: 11.4

Average score involvements: 5.2

Average tackles: 4.3

Average inside 50s: 2.8

BEST PERFORMANCE 

Nothing else stood a chance; the great man’s astonishing performance against Brisbane in round four was arguably the best individual game from a Bomber this year.

He was on fire from the very start, using his work-rate and strong leading patterns to find space and converting his opportunities with typical class. 

McDonald-Tipungwuti wrapped up the day with a jaw-dropping seven goals, 20 disposals (at 85 per cent efficiency), five inside 50s, five marks inside 50 and a whopping 12 score involvements.

MIGHTY MOMENT 

This wasn’t a hard choice either, with McDonald-Tipungwuti’s stunning game-winning goal against North Melbourne in round 17 proving to be one of the league’s most memorable moments of 2019.

With the season in the balance, his composure under immense pressure came to the fore with just seconds remaining.

Thanks to some tidy work from fellow forward Jayden Laverde, McDonald-Tipungwuti was gifted the ball and quickly assessed the situation deep inside the right forward pocket before slotting a mind-boggling snap through the tightest of goals to almost bring the roof down at Marvel Stadium.

Enjoy it below.

2020 VISION

Having now re-committed to the club until at least the end of the 2022 season, McDonald-Tipungwuti has clear air to focus on his football and continue to lead the way as one of the league’s premier small forwards. 

At 26 years old, the dazzling Bomber is still right in his prime and will remain a crucial part of the side’s journey for sustained success.