By Beth Newman
Broadbeach Cats
Finishing spot: 5th
At a glance: Under the radar at the start of the season, Broadbeach propelled itself into finals contention with dominant performances early on. Only losses through the year came to other finals clubs. A long season and two gruelling games to finish the home and away fixtures took its toll on the Cats, eliminated in the first week of finals by Mt Gravatt.
Biggest positive: Making finals
The Cats were one of the major surprises of 2014 and many of the side hadn’t been involved in a finals series before this one. With the second-youngest list in the QAFL, Broadbeach showed some really exciting passages of play through the year and will learn a lot from the experience, even though their exit was ultimately a disappointing display.
What to work on in 2015: Pace and size
The Cats struggled against bigger-bodied sides this season, and this was brutally exposed in wet weather situations. They will look to add some bulk to their list in the coming years, as well as some zip into their side.
B&F tip: Taylor Haley
Haley was back to some of his best form this season and a massive focal point for the Cats in their forward line. He only went goalless in one game this season and added some crucial experience to the side. Has been the most consistent performer Cats today.
Our verdict on the five teams who missed the finals here.
