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Forward Aaron Black, backman Lachie Hansen and forward-turned-defender Robbie Tarrant will be crucial to North’s chances this year, according to club great Anthony Stevens.
The two-time premiership player and dual best and fairest believes 2015 presents a good opportunity for the trio to overcome their previous injuries.
Stevens said if Black, Hansen and Tarrant can establish permanent spots in the squad, they’ll each be able to make solid contributions.
“They’ve got to an age now where they have to try and get their bodies right so they can hit the field running,” Stevens told NMFC.com.au in a past player survey.
“I think the three guys are a key to our success this year.
“If we can get those guys up and playing week in, week out and consistent footy on a weekly basis, then we’ll be a top four (side).”
Another player who has been restricted by injury throughout his career, Daniel Wells, is the Roos’ most important player this season, Stevens said.
“I look forward to seeing ‘Wellsy’ back without injury and back to his flashy best and getting on the park,” he said.
Stevens, who played 292 games for North, believes securing the all-important double chance is a realistic target following the club’s sixth-place finish at the end of the regular 2014 season.
“They should be aiming for a top-four position on the ladder and be consistently in the top four for the whole season,” he said.
“They’ve got the capabilities to actually be there.”
See Stevens’ answers and predictions below. Do you agree? Have your say below and we’ll let him know.
Past player survey – Stevens
1. What are your expectations of NMFC in 2015?
It’ll be disappointing if we don’t finish in the top four.
2. Who will be NMFC’s most improved player?
Aaron Black. He had a few injuries so if he can step up and take a lot of pressure off Drew Petrie, that’s what we need.
3. Will Brent Harvey play again in 2016?
Yes
4. What will the six-man forward line set-up be in round one?
Petrie, Black, Brown, Waite, Thomas, Higgins
5. Which NMFC players are you most excited about seeing this season?
Shaun Higgins and Daniel Wells
6. Which player(s) need to make a statement?
Aaron Black, Lachie Hansen and Robbie Tarrant
7. Where will NMFC finish after the home and away season?
3rd or 4th
8. How many members will NMFC sign up?
40,000-plus
9. Who is NMFC’s most important player in 2015?
Daniel Wells
10. Who will be the leading NMFC player in the following categories?
- Goals: Black
- Tackles: Cunnington
- Possessions: Wells
- Marks: Black
- Contested possessions: Cunnington
- Clearances: Ziebell
11. Complete the following sentence: If NMFC wins the Grand Final, I will:
Buy 10 North Melbourne memberships.
Do you agree with Stevens? Tell us what you think in the comments section and we'll let him know.
