With North Melbourne’s 2015 season now complete, NMFC.com.au analyses the performance of each player for the year.
Statistics, a coach review and their efforts in each half of the year are below, as well as a comment section for you to have your say.
Statistics
AFL appearances: 11
Disposal average: 10.2
Goals: 6
Tackles: 33
Season highlights
Round 15 v Geelong: 12 disposals, two goals
Round 22 v Western Bulldogs: 13 disposals, eight tackles, four marks
Semi Final v Sydney: 16 disposals, six marks
View Garner’s player profile here
First half review – Ben Dyer
“It was encouraging to see how quickly he was able to come in and impact. He does that because he loves the contest and goes looking for the ball.
“From the games that he has played you couldn’t ask for much more considering the time he missed. Once he gets the continuity under his belt, although it’ll be late in the season, he’s going to add to the team because of the controlled aggression he brings.”
Second half review – Shane Watson
“He just enjoys playing footy after missing so long.
“He’s almost like a kid playing for his junior footy club. He just wants to get out there and he enjoys tackling and he added something different to the forward mix.
“He’s a bit taller and has a bit more size on him from being in the gym for 12-18 months. That was the one benefit of being injured; he could build on his strength.
“For the moment, he’s only played a half year in the side so his role is more likely to be as a forward as opposed to moving further up the field.”
In the news
September 17 – Garner’s resilience – STORY
"There were doubts and there were times when I thought, 'This just isn't going to work, maybe my hammies just can't take it.'
September 15 – Garner’s turning point – STORY
"I just saw 'Drewy' fall over and I thought straight away, 'I'm going to have to go here'."
Have your say on Garner’s 2015 in the comments below