With North Melbourne’s 2015 season completed after a preliminary final loss, 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: 23
Disposal average: 16.8
Goals: 4
Tackles: 61
Running bounces: 31 (2nd at NMFC)
Season highlights
Round 12 v GWS Giants: 23 disposals, eight marks, one goal
Round 16 v Essendon: 20 disposals, six inside 50’s
Round 17 v Brisbane: 100th AFL game
First half review – Josh Drummond
“He had to find that balance between the different positions (playing wing and back) which is part of modern footy.
“He started the year ok and then hit a little bit of a rough patch which led to him taking the step back to the VFL. From his own admission he was better for being able to go back there and just being able to play footy without necessarily having the pressure on him.
“His game against the Giants was probably the best of the year. I’m expecting a big second half of the year – we need players like him to take the next step to help us as a team.”
Second half review – Josh Drummond
“Settling him in defence after he came back into the side helped.
“When he lost his place it was a bit of a wake-up call. His ability to respond from that was really impressive.
“As the year wore on he got better every single week.
“We know his run and carry is elite and we keep trying to get him into the game as much as we can. Even though he’s played over 100 games now, his best footy is still ahead of him.
“With the defence, we rely on the unit as opposed to individuals, so we don’t necessarily need him getting the ball 25 times a game, we just want him to contribute.”
In the news
August 24 – Speed to burn – STORY
“Atley running off the half-back in the last quarter … when he’s going it’s unbelievable.”
June 18 – Atley’s timely reminder – STORY
"I was disappointed to miss out for two weeks but it was…a timely reminder that your spot's never safe."
Have your say on Atley’s 2015 in the comments below
