And get through four quarters he did. Blumfield played four solid quarters across the half forward line and in the mid-field. And he was a sight for the sore eyes of Essendon supporters. Just seven short months prior to last Friday night Blumfield turned in one of the best performances of his career. He was pipped for the Norm Smith Medal by James Hird but he stamped himself as a class player.
""I got my hands on the football a bit early which really helps. You need that when you have been out for a while - it helps get the confidence back,"" Blumfield said. ""I didn't get as much of the football in the second half as I would have liked but with a game under my belt I hopeful of having an influence for the entire game this weekend,"" Blumfield said.
Blumfield said it had been a frustrating season. ""It has been tough at times but the only thing you can do is work hard and get back as quickly as you can,"" he said. ""There is no use walking around the club feeling sorry for yourself. Every player has to deal with injuries at some stage of their career.""
""All that said it could still end up as a very memorable season. What has happened in the past couple of months is behind me. If we can play well during the finals it could still be a very special season,"" Blumfield said.
If it does end up a very special season there is no doubt that number 32 will have had a significant influence.
