In what was an up-and-down season, Andrew Lovett was given a good rating by the fans who want him to be more consistent and not have any more off-field indiscretions.

The 25-year-old was a rookie selection in 2003 and showed signs of brilliance in 2008 but was also suspended twice by the club.

The fans gave him a 6/10 after awarding him 6.19/10 in 2007. He has now played 66 games since his 2005 debut and 2009 is shaping as a crunch year after almost being traded by the club.

 
2008

Games - 17

Kicks - 204

Handballs – 106

Marks – 73

Goals – 14

2008 fans’ rating – 6/10

2007

Games - 16

Kicks - 182

Handballs – 90

Marks – 86

Goals – 16

2007 fans’ rating - 6.19/10

2006

Games - 13

Kicks - 131

Handballs – 68

Marks – 61

Goals – 17

2006 fans’ rating - 5.48/10

Here is some of what the fans had to say about Lovett’s 2008 season:

Alan McCready - His off-field indiscretions and consequential suspension set him back. A true match winner, I would rather see an effort to improve his attitude and commitment than see him play for another club.

Michael Vassallo - exciting one game, cold the next. Has ability to win game off his own boot, but just doesn’t do it enough.

Peter Williams - I think Andrew had an ok season. His problem is consistency and commitment. His best is excellent. Let's hope he can produce it more consistently in 2009.

Matt Milburn - Lovett was brilliant in some games and woeful in others! Time will tell whether he deserves to wear the red and black!

Dennis Green - I thought Andrew had a reasonable year footy wise. In most of his appearances he provided spark for us and at times he was outstanding. I hope he stays a Bomber.

Shaun Cahill – Could’ve been another Michael Long but his off-field bad behaviour ruined it for both him and the EFC!!!

Caleb Slade - Had a brilliant start of the year that sort of died off towards the end with injuries and suspensions taking its toll. When on song, is as destructive as any player in the comp.

Barry Douce - Brilliant one week goes missing the next. Seems to have an attitude on the ground as well with his ‘I`m the only Bomber out there’. Knuckle down or there is the door.

John Poke - Andrew has shown his assets of pace and speed at times through-out the year. I would have loved to see much more a consistent performance than has been shown. I wish him well into the future.

Joseph Attard - The excitement machine from Bomberland, Andrew Lovett, had a good year but didn't control his off-field behaviour. It has more than likely cost him a spot at Bomberland. But I did love Lovett's way of using the ball nicely after sprinting away from opposition.

Greg Lewis - Played some brilliant football at times but needs greater fitness to do it more consistently throughout a game. Very happy he is still at the club in 2009.

Mike Eising - Whilst his performance in games was generally good, off-field indiscretions have affected his overall rating. Failure to attract a trade provides the opportunity to resurrect his career with the Bombers in 2009.

Graham Flynn - When he's hot, he's outstanding. I’d like to see more consistency and less injury. Pleased he's still at the club. Ball's in his court!

Bill Griffiths - Andrew's future must lie in the VFL unless he is willing and able to play accountable, team oriented football consistently. The occasional flash of brilliance isn't enough. 2009 must be his last chance.

Jan Di Pietro – Hasn't lived up to his potential I don't think. Shows little glimpses of brilliance but could do so much more.

Daniel Wright - So excited Andy is staying at Windy Hill, he had a very good year and if he can focus on his football more next season he can take our team very far. It's up to you Andy.

Luke Jones - What can I say, a very key Bomber. Hope he has a better season next year off and on the field. Can’t afford to let him go, he can turn the game up-side down off his own skills.

Paul White - Andrew, we need you man!! Fire up and show every doubter that you are true to Essendon and yourself. Achieve the ultimate!

Michael Barratt - Make the most of your second chance with Essendon.