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. 8, Matthew Kreuzer.

GAMES
2018: 12
Career: 173

GOALS
2018: 5
Career: 89

KEY AFL STATISTICS (averages in brackets)
Disposals: 159 (13.25) Hit-outs: 276 (23.00) Clearances: 46 (3.83) One percenters: 27 (2.25) Tackles: 41 (3.42)

OVERVIEW
After pulling on the navy blue jumper 21 times last year, Matthew Kreuzer’s injury-interrupted season only saw him manage 12 games in 2018.

Playing in the Round 1 season opener against the Tigers at the MCG, the 29-year went on to average over 13 touches and nearly four clearances per game.

Running out in seven consecutive matches in the middle of the year provided Kreuzer with consistent footy. However, an elevated heart rate then cut his season short.

Following the conclusion of the season, Kreuzer will undergo a standard medical produce to prevent any more episodes of an elevated heart rate.

There’s no doubt Carlton fans will be looking forward to seeing the ruckman back out on the track, fit and firing in 2019.

BEST PERFORMANCE
The big man played an instrumental role in Carlton’s win against arch-rivals Essendon in Round 8. Collecting 20 disposals – including 19 contested possessions – Kreuzer also had 31 hit-outs and seven tackles.

SEASON HIGHLIGHT
In Round 13 against Fremantle, ‘Kreuz’ showcased his clean skills at ground level, collecting a crumb in the forward line and snapping a running goal.