The Carlton Football Club began the first leg of its journey under senior coach Brendon Bolton in 2016.

After notching up seven wins for the season – three more than last year – the Blues ended up finishing 14th on the ladder.

With the team now on a break, we’re taking a look back at each player’s year in statistics. Here’s the review for Carlton’s No. 29, Billy Gowers:

VFL GAMES

Season 2016: 16

Career: 25

VFL GOALS

Season 2016: 4

Career: 7

KEY VFL STATISTICS (averages in brackets)

Disposals: 257 (16.1) Marks 78 (4.9) Contested Possessions 80 (5.00) Tackles: 22 (1.4) Clearances: 19 (1.2) Inside 50s: 33 (2.1)

OVERVIEW

Carlton rookie Billy Gowers played nearly every game for the Northern Blues this season, only missing two through injury in rounds 3 and 4.

In Round 7’s victory over archrivals Coburg, Northern Blues coach Josh Fraser praised Gowers for his aggressive attack off halfback, and his ability to hit the scoreboard – kicking an impressive running goal in the third quarter.

Gowers was named in Northern’s best players on three occasions, one being the Round 10 win over Box Hill. The 20-year-old amassed 27 disposals, including 15 kicks and 10 marks.


Gowers takes a strong mark in Northern's Round 20 clash with Williamstown at Ikon Park. (Photo: Jason Heidrich Photography)

HE SAID IT

– Gowers enjoyed watching the Blues take home their first four points of the season in Round 5 v Fremantle.

THEY SAID IT

“It was a really good game from Billy. He swept up just about everything that came into the defensive half of the ground. He provided some good run-and-carry, was strong in the air and used the ball well.”

– Northern Blues coach Josh Fraser was impressed with Gowers’ performance in Round 10’s win against Box Hill.

SEASON HIGHLIGHT
Gowers played an important role in Northern’s 14-point win over Geelong, helping the Club break a five-year hoodoo against the Cats. With only a few minutes left on the clock, Geelong were within seven points and could still smell victory. When the game was on the line Gowers’ slotted the match-winning goal, putting the margin beyond the Cats’ reach.