Jeremy Laidler’s 2015 season by the numbers...
Games: 23
Goals: 2
Total Disposals: 361
- Kicks: 181
- Handballs: 180
- Marks: 79
Avg. Disposals: 15.7
Contested Possessions: 126
Uncontested Possessions: 227
Rebound 50s: 61
Inside 50s: 32
One percenters: 64 (4th highest at the Swans)
Defensive coach John Blakey says...
"I think he was (ranked) number five for ground ball gathers withing the defensive 50 area and second at our club for intercept possession. We are really pleased with that aspect of his game, that he reads the game really really well. He's able to cut off the opposition's attack with smart positioning, we think he was able to do that really well for us this year. He has hardly missed a game since coming across from Carlton, he has been fortunate enough to get some solid preseasons in and this year we're looking for him to build on his game again. We try and put guys in roles we know they're capable of performing, and performing well, in. I think the role we've asked him to do for us, sometimes on a third tall or a high half forward, he's able to get the job done. I think he works well with Dane Rampe knowing when to get back and support or knowing when to be up and defend. He's certainly improved over the past two years, but again we're looking for him to have a big preseason and improve again."
Season highlight...
Jeremy Laidler has become an integral member of the Swans' back six after enjoying his most consistent season to date.
Swans supporters didn't have to wait long to see Laidler's talents in full swing with the 26-year-old stout in defence during the opening round thriller against Essendon.
Laidler collected a season-high 22 disposals, four inside 50s and even booted a rare but crucial goal from long range on the drizzly afternoon at ANZ Stadium.
The game, which saw the Swans' claim an amazing come-from-behind win, set the tone for the rest of the defender's season.
Laidler delivered a resolute performance in the Round 5 loss to the Western Bulldogs (21 possessions, four rebound 50s, four one percenters) while a solid effort against North Melbourne in Round 11 (10 contested disposals, five rebounds) added weight to what proved to be a standout season.
And, who could forget the long bomb against Fremantle in the qualifying final?
VIDEO: Watch Jeremy Laidler unload a long bomb in this year's qualifying final against the Dockers.
Through the lens...
Laidler directs traffic during the Swans' 21 clash against GWS.
Laidler wrestles for the ball against his North Melbourne opponent in Round 11.
Laidler celebrates with teammates following the Swans' Round 8 win over Hawthorn.
