Australian Football

Described by the Argus football writer Percy Taylor as a "promising half-forward from the seconds", John Lander made his senior debut for North Melbourne against Fitzroy in round 13 of the 1942 season. Although the Shinboners were soundly beaten, the 23-year-old Lander kicked two of North's 10 goals and was listed second in his side's best players in The Age on the following Monday.

That was enough for Lander to be given a second game, but it proved to be his last. He failed to kick a goal in a 58-point loss to South Melbourne, and although named in an extended North Melbourne squad for the following match, he 'missed the cut' and did not play another senior match.

Author - Andrew Gigacz