In 2019 Matt Eagles overcome a troublesome and painful groin injury to be awarded the 2019 Andrew Ireland Medal for best on ground in the NEAFL’s Grand Final win over the Southport Sharks.
Eagles was coming off the back of a breakout year in 2018, with the Category B rookie making his AFL debut and kicking his first goal.
A groin/abdominal injury, which required surgery, impacted his preparation for 2019 and he was not able to crack into the senior side.
The 29-year-old made the most of his time in the NEAFL and built up to some strong form in the back half of the season.
The key defender played 19 matches for the undefeated NEAFL side, including their 79-point Grand Final victory over the Sharks. As best on ground he had 21 disposals, eight marks (four contested) and five rebound 50s.
2019 was Category B rookie James Madden’s first year playing Aussie Rules and the Irishman did everything within his power to make an impact.
Madden played 16 games and was most often positioned on the wing as he is extremely quick.
In Round 12 against Sydney Uni he kicked his first goal. The following week, in a curtain raiser against Redlands at the Gabba, he kicked a career high five goals.
Unfortunately, Madden was one of the unlucky players not to be selected for the NEAFL Grand Final but he played a huge role in the team being able to remain undefeated.
His first season of football will hold him in good stead for 2020 as he continues to develop his skills and understanding of the game.
Tom Joyce’s 2019 campaign started strongly, with the draftee playing the first 12 of a possible 13 matches for the NEAFL. The 19-year-old was most often found in the midfield and would rest in the forward line.
His strongest performance was Round 6 against the Canberra Demons where he had 28 disposals, one goal and four tackles.
Unfortunately, Joyce’s first year as a Lion was cut short in Round 17 after suffering a stress reaction in his right shin. He missed the remainder of the year but will recover in time for the 2020 pre-season.
