|
|
2005:
After a flat patch midseason, Johnson returned to his dazzling best
in round 15 against Geelong, and carried on throughout the year
– with a brilliant performance against the Western Bulldogs
in round 17, dashing off the halfback flank. Capping off his best
ever season, Johnson was equal second in the Copeland Trophy, alongside
Woewodin and Licuria.
2004:
A Magpies supporter in his junior days, Johnson was selected at
pick 62 in the 1999 National Draft. In his first season at the Pies,
Johnson showed pace and poise from the wing, and actually kicked
four goals in his first game.
Johnson played in the number 31 jumper in his first season, but
with his childhood hero Gavin Brown retiring at the season’s
end, Johnson requested fro Brown’s number 26. Johnson then
went on to show some of the traits of Brown, such as skill, courage
and leadership.
Johnson was suspended in round 15 for charging Geelong’s Mitchell
White, which derailed his season.
2002 was a season where Johnson’s foot skills dramatically
improved. His run off the halfback flank a feature and his never
say die attitude inspirational. Johnson was again good in the Grand
Final, holding Brisbane star Jason Akermainis to only a handful
of touches.
Johnson again improved in 2003 with his run again a vital cog in
the Magpie machine. He added the ability to kick long goals to his
list of talents. He was one of the best on a dismal Grand Final
display.
2004 was Johnson’s best season to date. In a poor start to
the season, Johnson flew out of the blocks, running hard to create
and winning more of the ball then ever.
Johnson won the Jason McCartney Medal in round nine against the
Kangaroos, for the most courageous player of the ground. Although
he experienced a lean patch in the middle of the year, Johnson was
still the most improved player on the Magpies list.
|