Restricted to just one game in 2005 due to an ongoing left knee problem, Essendon fans believe it was difficult to rank Matthew Allan’s season. Having made the decision to retire at the end of the year they are sad to see the big man go, hoping he had one final season left in him. However, they understood his body could no longer take the rigours of AFL football and wish him well for the future.

2005
Games – 1
Goals – 0
Kicks – 6
Marks – 4
Handballs – 0

2005 Fan’s rating: 2.77 / 10

2004
Games – 20
Goals – 1
Kicks – 107
Marks – 65
Handballs – 91

2004 Fan’s rating: 6.62 / 10

""Pretty tough to judge a bloke who went down to injury after just one game. Would have been nice to have him working with Hille, Cartledge & Laycock for another season,"" Brad Sparkes

""Injury ended a career for a man with great potential in a fragile body. All the best for retirement Matthew - you gave it a real shot and sadly your body couldn't keep up,"" Stephen Hansford

""Matty did the right thing and retired gracefully! It takes a big man to make that decision. Sheeds gave him a last chance and he embraced the challenge and gave us a consistent year in 2004 but unfortunately he succumbed to injury this year. I wish him all the best in his retirement,"" Julie Quirk

""A great servant to Carlton, Essendon and football in general. Well done on a great career,"" Damian Davidson

""Can't judge a season on one game. Has been a wonderful player and it was shattering to not have him in the side the whole year, as he could have made an enormous difference. Great career, sad to see him go,"" Samuel Wharton

""His absence was sorely missed coupled with the injury to Hille. Unfortunately now retired we never saw the best of Matthew although his contribution to the Club should not be underestimated. His departure will provide opportunities for Laycock and Cartledge to develop,"" Paul Fisher

To watch Dean Wallis’ review of Matthew Allan’s season on Bomber.tv click here