As the Brisbane Lions gear up for the second half of the 2015 season, lions.com.au has asked the journalists covering the team to analyse the year so far.
Today, ABC Grandstand's Alister Nicholson kicks off the "The Mid-Season Verdict" series:
1. In one line, sum up the Brisbane Lions’ season to date:
AN: The Lions' season hasn't met my high level of optimism at the start of the year but the mitigating factor is the long injury list, which has included too many key position players.
2. What’s been the biggest positive of 2015 so far?
AN: The midfield depth has been a highlight for the Lions but the biggest positive this year has been the development of some young talls. Harris Andrews has shown some promise, Marco Paparone is enjoying a break-out season and key defenders Justin Clarke and Darcy Gardiner have given every indication they'll be a dependable long-term duo.
3. What’s the area that needs the most improvement?
AN: Skill errors have hurt the Lions this season and they've been punished on the turnover. It's partly a symptom of having a young group and will improve with experience. I love to watch the Lions take the game on through the middle. When the disposal efficiency improves, they'll be exhilarating.
4. Best player in 2015 to date?
AN: Dayne Beams has been tremendous in his first season with the club averaging 29 possessions a game. He's winning plenty of contested ball and using it well by hand and foot. He's led the midfield admirably in the absence of Tom Rockliff.
5. Best young player in 2015 to date?
AN: Marco Paparone has taken huge steps in his development. The athletic West Australian reads the play well in defence, has taken some important intercepting marks and provided plenty of run off half back. He's remarkably calm for a player of his age and uses the ball really well.
6. Most improved player in 2015 to date:
AN: I think Paparone has been the most improved player on the list. He's complimenting his athletic ability with good game sense and calmness under pressure.
7. In one line, sum up what a successful 2nd half of 2015 looks like for the Brisbane Lions:
AN: A successful second half of the season will see the Lions get some key players back including Merrett, McStay, Rockliff and Redden, win another 4-5 games and suffer no additional ten goal losses.
8. What do you think of Brion the Lion?
AN: Brion has been an exceptional addition and was, in no doubt, responsible for inspiring the team to its upset win over Port Adelaide in round 7.
