Cory McGrath struggled to cement a spot in the senior line-up in 2003. The 24-year-old played just nine games and the Essendon fans commented that they were hoping he would have more of an impact. Although the fans are disappointed to see McGrath traded to Carlton, they said that the move is an opportunity for him to become a regular senior player. McGrath was awarded a ranking of 4.4/10 from the Essendon fans.

2003 Games: 9
2003 Goals: 6
Kicks: 55
Marks: 30
Handballs: 25
Ave. disposals: 9

Fan’s ranking: 4.4/10

Robert Shaw’s thoughts:
A tireless worker around the club and is always one of the last players to come off the track. Was he an unlucky player or did we just prefer other players in positions that Cory play? I think both statements are correct. Cory has been given another opportunity at Carlton and we wish him all the best at this new club.

What some of fan’s had to say:
Lack of opportunities and lack of taking advantage of limited opportunities has led to Cory going elsewhere. Good luck for the future. Jeff Hall

Injuries and a lack of opportunities prevented Cory from the player he looked like being leading up to the 2001 finals. The change of scenery will hopefully see him realise his potential. Simon Remington

Never really pushed on after his solid 2001 season and always just outside the best 22. Wish him well at Carlton and hopefully will establish himself as a regular senior player there. Roderick Brown

Cory promised so much earlier on in his career, and has not delivered to date, despite a few chances popping up in most recent years. Cory has shown glimpses of slight brilliance; (his performance of note this year was against Port Power in Round 10 when he kicked 3 goals in ten minutes or so). Other than those glimpses, nothing much continues to happen in the footballing life of McGrath, and I think that the right choice was made in seeing the back of him. Sameul Wharton

Skill is obviously there however the opportunities were not. The move to Carlton should show us how talented he is. Good win for both clubs. David Whiting

Unfortunately, 2003 was not as good as 2002 as far as Cory is concerned. I think it was probably the best thing for him to go elsewhere, as we do have a lot of players of his type. Good luck to him, anyway. Joan Hill

When he got his chance he played quite well. Unlucky not to get more games but had to compete with more senior members of the midfield to get his chance. Sorry to see him go. Chris Irvine

Didn't really advance this year. Was only able to provide cameo appearances of the bench. Should benefit from more opportunity at Carlton and we got what looks like a good trade for him. Geoffery Heffernan