While it was a disappointing season for the Lions, with only four wins and a spate of injuries, players on the Club's young list impressed in their development and a number of the older hands showed great leadership, consistency and commitment to the team.

Today lions.com.au looks at guernsey numbers 42-45 in the ninth part of its series of player reviews.

#42 Justin Clarke

Justin Clarke carried extra load as a leader this year with the long-term injury to Dan Merrett. In Merrett’s absence, Clarke was forced to play closest to goal where he watched the game unfold from the last line of defence and also called the shots for the inexperienced back six. The 21-year old was ranked 9th in the league for one-percenter’s (138) in a very solid season at the Club. With another pre-season under his belt, the South Australian will be looking to progress further in his development.

#43 Josh McGuinness

In his first season in the AFL system, Tasmanian Josh McGuinness played 13 games in the NEAFL. Playing off wing and half-back for much of the year, McGuinness’ ability to play in a number of roles around the ground has been critical to his development.  The 18-year old has shown improvement in his decision making skills and will use 2016 to push for senior selection.

#44 Archie Smith

Rookie Archie Smith spent his second season at the Club playing in the Reserves. Smith’s effort was particularly strong in the second half of the season, where he used his big bodied frame in the defensive 50 to make an impact on marking contests. Like the other rookies, Smith will be keen to join the seniors in 2016.

#45 Jordon Bourke

Bourke played the most senior football of his career in 2015, notching up five games for the Lions. His relative maturity within a young Reserves side facilitated his selection in the Seniors squad, being upgraded to the senior list to fill spaces created by injury. His best game came in Round 13 against the Crows, when he kicked two goals. He collected 16 disposals against the Bulldogs in Round 12. Bourke tore his meniscus in the Reserves’ loss to Sydney University at Blacktown in July ending his season. He was delisted at season’s end.