Games: 16
Goals: 47
Kicks: 143
Marks: 96
Handballs: 40

FAN’S RATING: 6.7 / 10

Some of the fans’ comments:

“Despite injury when Lloydy was fully fit showed why he is the best forward in the competition. Great hands and presence with the body improved during the year. Pity about the injuries...100 goals beckoned yet again!” Rohan Adams.

“Diminished return in 2002 with major injury setback, but showed what a champion player he is by kicking five goals on return from injury.” David Parasol.

“Seemed to lose accuracy in goal kicking in the latter part of the season. Interrupted season and delivery to him was not as good as previously.” Bill Ogilvie.

“Unfortunately Lloydy was unable to perform at his best this year with injury, but even with that set back he had a great year, especially his first game back from injury. He showed what a truly gifted player he is.” Danielle Hameister.

“Not much can be said a true champion of this team and his performances speak for themselves. Unfortunately injury cost him another 100-goal season and the Bombers finishing higher up the ladder in 2002.” Edward Kane.

“Injury cost Lloyd another Coleman Medal and Essendon a top-four finish. Will be around the 100 goal mark again next season if injury and suspension free. Is Lloyd the last of the TRUE full forward Champions?” Paul Gordon.

“He didn’t get out on the park often enough to have anywhere near as much effect as what he did in 2000 and 2001, but still solid. With an injury free season next year all Essendon fans are hoping for another ton from Matty.” Ben Jenkin.

“Sensational until injury struck.. He had the perfect comeback game and never gave up in the latter part of the season. You will have that Coleman Medal around your neck next year Matty.” Nicole Lewtas.

THE WASH UP:

Essendon supporters said only injury prevented Lloyd from winning a third Coleman Medal and possibly kicking another 100 goals. Bomber fans said his five-goal haul against the Western Bulldogs showed what a star player he is – fit for the entire season they were convinced Essendon would have finished in the top four.

ROBERT SHAW SAID:

“We missed his presence in the forward line when he was out injured. He started the season well and returned well from what was a pretty serious injury. He will be super keen next season. Mediocrity doesn’t sit well with him – injury was the reason for that from a personal point of view – but he will want to be a key player in our push for a top four finish in 2003.”