2004
Games – 20
Goals – 1
Kicks – 107
Marks – 65
Handballs – 91
2004 Fan’s rating: 6.62 / 10
""A stroke of genius by Sheeds and his men to give Matty Allan another chance and get him down to the club. He worked really hard during the season and gave good support for Hille. His workload in terms of how much time he spends on the ground next year to allow Hille to take the role of number one ruckman will be interesting. There is no doubt that Allan will be a very handy player next year."" Chris Chatterton.
""Showed why Sheedy got him over to Essendon. A good tap ruckman who competed well throughout the year. Will have confidence to take into 2005 and should be used to Essendon’s style now. Would be good if he could push forward and use his height to affect more scoring opportunities."" Paul Bosher.
""Matty has been an excellent addition to our team and has taken a lot of the rucking pressure away from David Hille. I believe we can get another solid year out him."" Julie Quirk.
""A pleasing effort after many years at Carlton. Took on the major ruck responsibilities with David Hille. Only injury towards the end of the season inhibited his first year at Essendon. His experience as a ruckman now needs to be passed onto the younger ruckmen at the Club."" Robert Murray.
""Matthew's ruck experience was a breath of fresh air for supporters sick of the unwarranted criticism levelled at Essendon’s rucking division. He plays the position well and is not afraid of using his body. One area that Matthew can improve is moving forward more when the team has possession of the ball. One goal from 20 games is not enough."" Robert Lorenzetto.
""A solid input and well worth the risk last draft. Did very well in the ruck contests and provided an option around the ground. A good season considering the amount of time out of the game. He needs to work on his disposal but otherwise a handy acquisition. To get the maximum out of David Hille the club needs to balance the workload."" Rod Ansell.
""Allan took a while to find his feet in 2004. Once he did, Essendon were on a streak. When he got injured against Port, we really lacked strength in the ruck. Love to see him play a full season in 2005!"" Josh Little.
""To me, Matthew Allan was one of the success stories of the year. After hardly getting out on the ground for the last few years at Carlton, he got his body right and played good footy. His ruckwork complimented Hille well - Allan is stronger at the stoppages, while Hille is more versatile in general play."" Shane King.
