THE AFLCA AFL Champion Player of the Year votes for Round 1 matches are in, with six Blues polling votes. 

With the dominant midfield performance that Carlton gave at the MCG, it was no surprise to see five of the six vote-getters coming from the midfield brigade. 

Patrick Cripps has scored a perfect 10 votes, being one of six players across the opening round to receive the maximum amount. 

It was no surprise that the skipper would receive the most votes from Round 1 in his best-on-ground performance, totalling 30 disposals and 11 contested possessions.

Speaking in pre-season about his desire to “let his football do the talking”, it was the perfect start from Cripps, who kicked three goals, contributed 10 score involvement and gained a game-high 679 metres.

Speaking of midfield bulls, Matthew Kennedy polled eight votes for his Round 1 performance.

The 24-year-old matched his captain’s clearance tally, while producing a game-high 33 disposals: it was just reward for the big-bodied midfielder, who used his strength and running power to maximum effect to continue his form since the back half of last year.

It was a happy Navy Blue debut for both Adam Cerra and George Hewett, who polled six and four votes respectively.

Cerra showcased his class on-ball, picking up score involvements from his 30 disposals: 12 of those came in the last quarter as the Blues took the game away from the Tigers.

Hewett’s physicality was on show in the traditional clash, bringing his teammates into the game with his 13 contested possessions.

Sam Docherty and Marc Pittonet both received a singular vote for their strong showings to round out the votes.

Partnered by Tom De Koning, Pittonet’s ruck nuance was on show, combining his ability to give his midfielders first-use by also surging the Blues forward with four clearances.

Docherty was inspirational in his first emotional return. Commanding in his position across half back, he took six intercepts and 26 disposals to add to his second-quarter goal: his first major since his All-Australian season of 2017.

Round 1 votes: 

10 - Patrick Cripps (CARL)
8 - Matthew Kennedy (CARL)
6 - Adam Cerra (CARL)
4 - George Hewett (CARL)
1 - Sam Docherty (CARL)
1 - Marc Pittonet (CARL)