The countdown to season 2002 is on in earnest and in our continuing Engine Room series we look at the senior listed players and pin-point their roles in the upcoming season. Today we take a look at SCOTT LUCAS. On a personal note, Lucas finished the 2001 season in fine style on what was a disappointing day for the club. Lucas was clearly Essendon's best player in the Grand Final - kicking four goals from centre half forward and being one of the Bombers' few winners on the day. And it was a day that capped off an excellent finals' series - he was also one of the Bombers' best players in the club's tight preliminary final victory over Hawthorn.

Lucas was the only Essendon player to take the field in every match in 2001 - a welcome change of luck for the centre half-forward who has been the victim of serious injury during his career. Lucas again made a significant contribution collecting an average of 17 possessions per game - a very good result for a centre half forward. He kicked 35 goals in 2001 compared with 57 in season 2000 and he would love to again crack the 50-goal mark in the upcoming season. If he can he will have made an excellent contribution to Essendon's 2002 campaign.

Lucas finished second in general kicks, long kicks, contested marks and inside 50's in 2001 and third in general marks behind behind Matthew Lloyd and Paul Barnard. They are numbers that reflect his excellent work ethic on match day and his willingness to run and create options for his teammates downfield and other forwards.

At 24 years of age Lucas is in the prime of his football career. He has one Premiership under his belt and he won't be satidfied with that. He knows that side's don't stay at the top forever and that this group has to make the most of its time. If it is to do that, Lucas will be critical. He must take the strong marks and kick the important goals - when he is doing that Essendon looks a far more dangerous side when going forward.

How will he be used on match day?

Lucas will obviously play the majority of his football at centre half forward but may rotate through the goal square at times during the season. He will also push forward across the mid-field when options are needed. Lucas has played at centre half back at times and done the job well. It will be rare to see him there but it is another option.

What will the coaches want on match day?

The coaches will want to see Lucas really stamp himself on games and make matching him up a difficult job for opposition coaches. They will also want Lucas to ensure he contributes even when he isn't starring. Forwards can't star every game but the coaching staff still love to see them bob up and kick a goal or take a big mark.