It is fair to say the Essendon fans were disappointed with Mark Mercuri’s season in 2003. Although the overall consensus was he had an unfortunate run with injuries, in the matches he did play they said he didn’t do enough. Most felt that Mercuri’s best performance was against Hawthorn in Round 8 where he was the top possession gatherer and finished with two goals. With two years remaining on his contract, Bomber fans are hoping Mercuri can recapture the form that has made him one of Essendon’s best players of the last 10 years.

2003 Games 16
2003 Goals 7
Kicks 126
Marks 74
Handballs 100

Fan’s ranking: 4.0/10

Robert Shaw’s comments:
Mark is at the age where he has plenty to offer. You don’t lose your ability, but what Mark needs to do is balance that natural talent that has taken him to be one of Essendon’s best players over the past 10 years, with an understanding that as you do get older, you do have to work a lot harder to compensate. There is no doubt he can do it and we hope he can do it. It is in Mark’s hands how he wants to be seen and how he wants to play.

What some of the Essendon fan’s had to say about Mercuri’s season:
Needs to spend the summer trying to figure out how to get the fire back in the belly. Skill is not the problem, we know he has plenty of that. Needs to just do what he does best with the footy instead of stopping to think about it before he does it. Jamie Robinson

Certainly not what he used to be. But I believe he could pick up some better form next year if he gives it his all. Saw a glimpse of it this year, but not enough. Paula Lee

Apart from that game against Hawthorn, Mercs had a poor season. 1999 was a long time ago now and since that year he has been out of form, which is disappointing. When in form, he is one of the most classy, skilful players and I’m sure all fans would tend to agree. Peter Pagounis

Mark Mercuri didn't play all year but when he does he always plays a big part in the team. Next year, hopefully Mark will get more games and be as good as ever on the field. Jessica Alickolli

Has unfortunately become a fringe player - still has the potential to be damaging but must have a solid pre-season and be free of injury to give himself the best chance of performing at optimum performance levels - even if that's only at 80% of his 1998-9 form that will be more than pleasing to Bomber fans. Renee Wijnen

I've always been a huge fan of Mercs, but he must change his style of play if he is to continue with the club. Can no longer afford to hold onto the ball - must dispose quickly. He would work well as a full-time small forward in 2004 - still an excellent mark and accurate kick. Cameron Jones

A superbly talented player but something is lacking, would like to see a huge improvement next year. If he can get his head right he will be of great value in 2004. Michelle Gardiner

Unfortunately no longer in our best 25. It is heart wrenching to see Merc's frequently looking to handball instead of kicking the goals for us from 50. Needs to get his injury fixed or will never play seniors again. David Beasley

By Mercuri Standards, another quiet season. I know he has been hampered by injury but I can't help thinking the era of the Rolls Royce may be over. He has two more contracted years to prove himself and he is still under 30, so I hope we can see a return to the stellar form of old. Adrian Brennan