In the final week of the two-week player review, melbournefc.com.au looks back on Melbourne's 2008 playing list. Although the team had a disappointing on-field season, claiming its first wooden spoon since 1997, several youngsters impressed for the long-term. Working through the list alphabetically, five players will be reviewed each day (four in the final edition), starting with Clint Bartram and ending with Trent Zomer.

On Tuesday, we look at Brad Miller, Brent Moloney, Cale Morton, David Neitz and Michael Newton. 

Brad Miller – After battling injury and form issues in recent seasons, Miller faced an important 2008 and he emerged with a solid season, his best to date. He claimed career-best disposals, marks and goals and was included in the leadership group. His performances in Melbourne's wins against Fremantle and the Brisbane Lions were instrumental. The key forward will be looking to build on his efforts in 2009 – his eighth AFL listed season.

Brent Moloney – After two seasons with Geelong in 2003-04, Moloney had a fine first-up season with the club in 2005. But he has since had a wretched run with injury, playing just 25 matches including eight in 2008. Although his groin has predominantly troubled him, he battled a quadriceps problem early this year, before a shoulder injury sidelined him for the second half of 2008. Despite these hurdles, his leadership grew over the year and at only 24, the hard-at-it midfielder still has time to side.

Cale Morton – One of the club's genuine positives to emerge this season was the debut season from the 18-year-old. Taken at No.4 in last year's NAB AFL Draft, Morton played 19 matches for the season and racked up 349 disposals, including a personal best 30 disposals against West Coast in round 20. He then received a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination for his efforts from that match. The tall midfielder is without question one of the club's most promising talents and will only continue to improve.

David Neitz – Sadly, an end of era came in 2008, with the retirement of Neitz – one of the club's greatest players. He retired in the lead-up to round nine, after a neck injury forced his hand. After playing the first five matches of the season, Neitz, who had been battling his neck complaint from the pre-season, injured it again against Carlton in what was ultimately his final appearance in the red and blue. His stellar career leaves a vast legacy, including records for games played, games as captain and goals kicked.
 
Michael Newton – Entered his fourth season with plenty of promise after playing 10 matches in 2007, highlighted by his spectacular AFL Mark of the Year over teammate David Neitz. But after playing in the opening round of the season, Newton did not return until round 15 as form, a knee injury and VFL suspension all sidelined him. The tall forward managed six matches – five during rounds 15 to 21 – but the talented 21-year-old must take the next step in 2009.