The Blues’ young playing list was faced with a number of challenges in 2018, and as a result, finished the year with fewer wins than previous seasons.

However, the valuable experience gained by first and second-year players, coupled with the resilience built within the team, will no doubt hold the Club in good stead for years to come.

With the side now on a break, we’re analysing each player’s year in statistics. Here’s the review for Carlton’s No. 3, captain Marc Murphy. 

GAMES

2018: 13
Career: 249 

GOALS

2018: 5
Career: 173

BY THE NUMBERS (averages in brackets)

Disposals: 338 (26) Kicks: 184 (14.2) Clearances: 42 (3.2) Contested possessions: 107 (8.2) Uncontested possessions: 230 (17.7) Tackles: 52 (4)

2018 IN FOCUS

A frustrating beginning to the year for Marc Murphy saw Carlton’s skipper restricted to just five games before the end of June.

A troublesome foot injury heavily interrupted Murphy’s year, after the 31-year-old was approaching the season as the Club’s reigning best and fairest winner.

Come the conclusion of the season, Murphy featured in 13 games, with the last nine of those consecutive.

He only dropped below 20 disposals once — when he bravely battled through the game against Melbourne — and spent more time playing across half-back.

One of Carlton’s most consistent players since arriving in 2006, Murphy will enter the 2019 season one game shy of his 250th game milestone.

BEST PERFORMANCE

Murphy produced a captain’s performance when the Blues headed to Metricon Stadium in Round 19.

With 36 disposals, eight clearances and a goal, Murphy willed his side to its second victory of the season alongside Patrick Cripps and Ed Curnow. Murphy ultimately polled four AFLCA votes for his game.

SEASON HIGHLIGHT

Murphy’s loyalty to the Navy Blues is undeniable, and it was demonstrated back in June when he re-signed for two more seasons.

Expressing his delight at being able to guide the next generation at Ikon Park, Murphy’s new contract all but ensures the dual John Nicholls Medallist will be a Blue for life.