Hampered by a knee injury for most of the season, it was a frustrating year for Dean Solomon. Restricted to only 16 games, it was reflected in the fan’s assessment of Solomon’s year with his ranking well down from 2004. Fans are expecting big things from Solly next year, hopeful he can curb his undisciplined acts while continuing to add hardness to the team.

2005
Games - 16
Goals - 4
Kicks - 130
Marks – 64
Handballs - 62

Fan’s ranking: 5.56/10

2004
Games – 23
Goals - 15
Kicks - 244
Marks - 79
Handballs - 154

Fan’s ranking: 7.76 /10

""So much talent and can be such a vital player for us. Is an imposing and aggressive player that just needs to step up to another level to reach his peak. When he is on, though, he is awesome to watch."" (Greg Solon)

""Really didn't get into the swing of things this season. Injury prevented him from getting in consistency. Has shown plenty over the years, and a big 2006 is expected."" (Victor Navarro)

""Some good games. But generally didn't have the same impact as he did in 2004, possibly due to injury. Needs to learn to curb his aggression so that is controlled rather than controlling him."" (Antony Claughton)

""Had a mixed year which was generally disappointing by Solomon's high standards. Is a strong tackler (nearly 3 per game) and worked well in some games as a leading half forward."" (Duncan Young)

""Played some good games at the start of the season but then dropped off and gave away some undisciplined free kicks. But his hardness at the ball is much needed at Essendon."" (Matthew Biddle)

""Dean is a vital part of our team. I felt he lost some pace this year and did have some injury interruptions throughout the year. I would like him to settle down back in 2006."" (John Poke)

""A great player hampered this year by injury. A certainty when fit and an integral part of the side down back. But needs to stop giving away too many frees. I look forward to an injury free year in 2006."" (Geoff Hall)

""Despite some niggling injuries and on-field aggression questions, Essendon is a far better team when Solly is playing. Always attack the ball and constantly gives 100% for the club. Still prefer Solly as a backline player where he provides run and plenty of worries for opposition forwards, with short rotations into the midfield for some bash & crash footy."" (Paul Bosher)

To watch Adrian Dodoro's review of Dean Solomon's season on Bomber.tv click here.