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. 28, David Cuningham.
GAMES
Season 2018: 5
Career: 16
GOALS
Season 2018: 1
Career: 7
KEY AFL STATISTICS (averages in brackets):
Disposals: 61 (12.20) Inside 50s: 41 (2.00) Contested possessions: 23 (4.60) Handballs: 37 (7.40) Uncontested possessions: 42 (8.40)
OVERVIEW
Young midfielder David Cuningham notched up another five games in 2018, taking to the field in Rounds 2, 3, 4 10 and 11.
In his third season at the Blues, the 2017 Rising Star nominee averaged just over 12 disposals and two inside 50s per game.
The 21-year-old also managed two games for the Northern Blues, playing against Port Melbourne in Round 4 and the Box Hill Hawks in Round 7.
Unfortunately, Cuningham was one of a number of players who were struck down by injuries this season, which kept him sidelined for long periods of the year.
Heading into his fourth pre-season, Cuningham will be hoping to get his body right and find consistency in 2019.
David Cuningham managed five games of senior footy in 2018. (Photo: AFL Media)
BEST PERFORMANCE
In Round 2 against the Gold Coast – his first outing for the season – Cuningham amassed 21 disposals, including six contested possessions, four inside 50s and four tackles. The speedy mid also took three running bounces - the second highest in the game behind defender Kade Simpson.
SEASON HIGHLIGHT
Cuningham kicked a massive goal from outside 50 against Geelong in Round 10 at GMHBA Stadium. Collecting the footy from Sam Petrevski-Seton on the wing, the young midfielder took off and launched the ball just outside the centre square, with the ball skidding through for a major.
