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 it 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. 7, Matthew Kennedy.

GAMES

2018: 12
Career: 31

GOALS
2018: 3
Career: 10

BY THE NUMBERS (averages in brackets)
Disposals: 206 (17.2) Tackles: 40 (3.3) Contested possessions: 94 (7.8) Inside 50s: 18 (1.5) Marks: 40 (3.3).

2018 IN FOCUS
Matthew Kennedy arrived at Ikon Park in 2017 to provide much-needed inside midfield support.

Unfortunately, his debut year at Carlton was interrupted by injury, with the 188cm GWS recruit playing just 12 games due to a troublesome ankle.

Despite limited opportunities, the 21-year-old showed promise, particularly in the back-end of the year. He averaged over 20 disposals after returning to the AFL side in Round 14.

After having ankle surgery in August, Kennedy will be hoping to put together a strong pre-season as he prepares for his second season with the Blues.

BEST PERFORMANCE

With 29 disposals, four marks, four tackles and a goal to top it all off, Kennedy’s performance against the Hawks in Round 18 impressed. He also amassed career-high contested possessions (15) and effective disposals (21) in the uphill battle.

SEASON HIGHLIGHT

Kennedy was one of three players to enjoy his first win at Carlton (alongside Matthew Lobbe and Cameron Polson) in Round 19 against Gold Coast. With 23 disposals, four marks and five clearances, he undoubtedly played a pivotal role in the triumph.