Essendon supporters think it is time for Tristan Cartledge to really start pushing for a senior berth. They say the club has been patient with him and it is time for him to reward that patience. Most believe he has played some solid football for Bendigo but that he needs to start dominating those games. In essence, 2005 is a make or break year for him.

2004

Games – 0
Goals – 0
Kicks - 0
Marks – 0
Handballs - 0

2004 Fan’s ranking: 3.10 / 10

2003 Fan's Rating: 3.64 / 10

What some of the Essendon fans had to say:

""He must simply take every chance that's presented to him. There’s not much doubt that there will be a few opportunities that he will face during the course of 2005, its up to him to be able to step up to the mark and take them by the throat,"" Chris Chatterton.

""No senior progress yet. But has been OK for Bendigo from all reports. Looking forward to see a young Essendon tap ruckman running around. It has been a while,"" Justin Woodward.

""Has shown great ability in the reserves this year. Hope the club gives him the chance to develop completely. Injury restricted him at the end of the year when places in the senior team became available. Hope to see him debut next year,"" Megan Bowles.

""With Laycock's development and Allan staying on, is really only going to be a 4th choice ruckman at this stage, so will struggle to have an impact next season as well, unless there are injuries. Hopefully will become a ruckman of the future, lets wait and see,"" John Kerr.

""This boy's time is now. A good pre-season, matched with some pre-season matches and some solid Bendigo form and he will be a contender for a spot in the side next year. Otherwise, he will be packing his bags come next year. There is no doubt that he will be shown some opportunities in 05. He must take them,"" Dom Massarotti.

""Great pre-season and should have continued that form into the Bendigo season. Needed to stand up more for the Bendigo team and prove himself. Tristan needs a great pre-season, and needs to grab the opportunity and play in the first next year. He has built himself up since coming to the club and needs to continue to do so if wants a great career at Essendon!"" Rachel Cormick

""A disappointing season for Tristan. Has showed great talent, will have to show Sheeds that he really does deserve a spot in the team with other youngsters floating around,"" Jackie Duong.

""Frustrating season with injury because he probably would have had a few games in the AFL when Matthew Allen was injured if he wasn't injured. I am looking forward to seeing a fresh Tristan Cartledge in 2005!"" Ricke Dovey.