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. 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 Wednesday, we look at Ricky Petterd, Jared Rivers, Russell Robertson, Jake Spencer and Colin Sylvia.   

Ricky Petterd – After suffering a life-threatening punctured lung in round 15 last year, the half-back/midfielder returned for the opening round this season. But soon his 2008 was hindered by a groin injury, which sidelined him for the first half of the season. He returned for the final round, but went down with a hamstring injury. The 11-game Queenslander has had his fair share of hurdles in his first two seasons, but he remains one of Melbourne's brightest youngsters and will be hoping for a change of luck in 2009.

Jared Rivers – Another integral Demon who has had an unfortunate run with injury in recent seasons. The tall defender has played just 70 matches in six seasons, including 22 in his 2004 NAB AFL Rising Star winning year and 22 in 2006. But over the past two seasons, he has played just nine matches, including six this year, due to a hip and abdominal injury. Although he will still only be 24 years old next season, he will be eager for a change of luck in 2009.

Russell Robertson – The high-flying forward endured a tough season, having been grounded after round 10, due to a snapped achilles. Still, he is already on the road to recovery. He is set to become the second oldest player on Melbourne's list next season – he will be 30 years old – with only James McDonald older. Although heading towards the end of an outstanding career with Melbourne, he will add experience in 2009.

Jake Spencer – Melbourne's third selection in last December's NAB AFL Rookie Draft – No.35 overall – the developing 203cm ruckman made good progress in his first year at the club, after representing Queensland in last year's NAB AFL under 18 championships. Spencer spent much of the season with the Sandringham seniors, with a handful of appearances in the Zebras reserves. He was then struck down with glandular fever towards the end of the season. Spencer looms as a long-term prospect.

Colin Sylvia – The talented forward/midfielder managed his most productive year, claiming career-best matches, disposals and goals in a season. He missed just four matches, one due to a club enforced suspension and two with a hamstring injury, but played every match from round 10 – his best streak in his career. Sylvia is now on track to undertake his first pre-season, having overcome debilitating groin/abdominal problems. Having made good progress in 2008, expect him to continue next year.