Essendon supporters were a relieved bunch that Dean Solomon didn’t end up at Richmond as was almost the case at the end of 2003. In his 2004 Report Card, fans said it was Solomon’s best season at senior level with his hardness in the midfield critical. He finished third in the 2004 Crichton Medal and supporters felt that was a fair reflection of his season.

Games – 23
Goals - 15
Kicks - 244
Marks - 79
Handballs - 154
Fan’s ranking: 7.76 /10

2003
Games - 24
Goals - 11
Kicks - 243
Marks - 103
Handballs -105
Fan's Rating: 6.81 /10

What some of the Essendon fans had to say:

""Thank heavens he didn't go to Richmond (Solly probably thinks the same thing). Great year but I'm still unsure of his best position. Potentially could play CHB because of his strength but we'd need to find an inside midfielder or two to allow that,"" Shane Abood.

""Outstanding season, laying the foundation to become a key part of the midfield for years to come. Showed the fierce attack and determination and won plenty of the ball at stoppages. Disposal skills lacking at times, but should see a lot of time in the centre,"" Nicolas Kerr.

""Did not quite have the fitness and motivation to play midfield all day all year. Seemed to get tired and/or bored and/or lose confidence, but the refreshment at CHB did him wonders. Could be awesome as a full time midfielder if he gets those things right, otherwise he can still be a very good player as a ""utility"","" Damon Beckwith.

""Thank God he didn't go to the Tigers! Needs to work on his disposal which appears sloppy at times but his versatility and commitment make him indispensible. A future captain of the club,"" Sean Elwick.

""Dean has always been a player of great grit and determination, which was why we were so desperate to keep him. And thank God we did! He's an Essendon warrior and his steady improvement continued in 2004. A definite leader - we all love him,"" Mary Tovey.

""Pound for pound one of the toughest players going around, but still gives away stupid free kicks every game. Added a bit of steel to the midfield but could do with an extra yard of pace,"" Bradley Cole.

""Huge year from Solly this year. His toughness and aggression in the midfield was a real plus, and he will only get better with the experience. Showed his fantastic versatility as well, playing on some big forwards when we were short down back due to injuries,"" Coolio Caspersz.

""It took a while for Dean to show us what he could do in 2004. Solomon stepped up in the second half of the season with great games against Port Power and Collingwood. I hope to see him continue where he finished off in 2004 and carry it into the next season,"" Josh Little.