SAM Walsh has continued his strong form, polling nine AFLCA votes in the Round 12 clash with Port Adelaide. 

Battling from the first bounce, Walsh was instrumental in the Blues’ midfield, finishing the game with 34 disposals (game-high), 15 contested possessions (game-high), 13 tackles (game-high) and eight clearances (team-high).

The 23-year-old also assisted his teammates in hitting the scoreboard, picking up seven score involvements and nine inside 50s. 

His nine votes was enough to propel him into the top 10 with 46 votes, now sitting narrowly behind captain Patrick Cripps on 49.

The skipper received seven votes for a powerful performance, particularly in the final quarter when he well and truly put the foot down, registering back-to-back goals to kickstart a brutal Blues run.

Cripps gathered 22 disposals and nine contested possessions, but it was his work going forward that caught the coaches’ eye, totalling 11 score involvements, six inside 50s and those two important goals. 

Tom De Koning received six votes for his impressive ruck battle, totalling 28 hitouts, 12 contested possessions and eight score involvements - including a goal - in what was a comprehensive performance. 

It's the second straight week the ruckman has polled votes, with his ability to make an impact in the middle and up forward a key part of Carlton's attacking game.

Nic Newman polled a singular vote for his defensive outing in a game where the back six was under siege for portions of the game. 

Holding strong as per usual, Newman ended up totalling eight marks, seven intercepts and four rebound 50s, providing vital work in the defensive half. 

Round 12 votes

9 - Sam Walsh (CARL)
7 - Patrick Cripps (CARL)
6 - Jason Horne-Francis (PORT)
6 - Tom De Koning (CARL)
1 - Aliir Aliir (PORT)
1 - Nic Newman (CARL)