Christian Howard

Guernsey number: 30

2013 games: 1

Career games: 18

2013 goals: 0

Career goals: 3

Disposals                               17

Disposal efficiency              64.8%

Handball receives               7.4

Marks                              4.6

Tackles                           3.6

Season in short:

Marred by injury niggles and some indifferent form, Howard’s 2013 season was difficult to assess. Playing just  one senior game in 2013 was not the return Howard was hoping for, but the running defender did produce some good moments in the VFL, particularly in the finals series.

Stat that mattered:

There was a noticeable improvement in Howard’s defensive actions in 2013, where in eight games this season, he laid five or more tackles — albeit in the VFL. In his one opportunity at senior level, Howard had 16 pressure acts (13 implied) which demonstrates a focus on getting better in this area of his game.

What they said:

"He (Howard) was troubled by some hip complaints towards the latter part of the season… he's had a successful operation on that and will get back in time to get a really good pre-season in."

List Manager Jason McCartney told AFL.com.au

Pre-season focus:

Howard stepped up his endurance base through last years’ pre-season campaign, and this year he will look to build again, along with his power and speed. His defensive craft, like most of his teammates, will be a focus again this pre-season.