We take a look back at five of the best matches from Paul Chapman’s debut season in the red sash following the announcement he will play on in 2015.
Round 1 v North Melbourne – 22 disposals, four goals, four clearances
After being not offered a new contract with Geelong and joining the Bombers during the trade period Chapman had a point to prove in Essendon’s season opener. In a dream debut in the red and black he booted four goals to go along with 22 disposals. The 32 year old had a strong influence in the side’s win to kick off the 2014 season in fine style.
Round 3 v Carlton – 23 disposals, four goals, 11 marks
Continuing his strong start to the season Chapman was instrumental in the Bombers 81 point thrashing of Carlton at the MCG on a Sunday night in round 3. He was once again leading goalkicker for the red and black booting a bag of four to start his season with nine goals from his first three matches.
Round 8 v Brisbane – 23 disposals, eight marks, five tackles
In an up and down affair all night it was the hardness of Chapman’s bigger body around the contest that proved to be important in the eight point win. He didn’t manage to get on the scoreboard but had an important 23 disposals for the match along with five tackles around the contest.
Round 17 v Collingwood – 20 disposals, three goals, eight tackles
A trademark snap for the second goal of the game set the tone of the ngiht for the Bombers in what would go on to be one of their biggest wins of the season. Chapman booted three goals including a magical snap from the boundary line for his third goal of the night. In a match in which Jake Carlisle dominated in the air, Chapman dominated on the ground including eight tackles to lock the ball inside the forward 50.
Elimination Final v North Melbourne – 22 disposals, two goals
In the club’s biggest game of the season it was the one with most experience in finals that stood up. Chappy’s ability to convert with two goals and gather 22 disposals throughout the night shone through against North Melbourne in the elimination final loss. It was in that match that Chapman proved the importance of experience on the big stage and the important role that he played among the Essendon playing group after just one year at the club.
