There were plenty of Blues who caught the eye in the team’s 15-point win over Essendon at the MCG, but who posted the most impressive stats?

Carlton Media picks its top-five player stats from Round 6:

Bryce Gibbs
Game-high 10 clearances, three goal assists

Bryce Gibbs has made a strong start to 2016, with his performance against Essendon his most complete so far this season. The No.4’s game-high 10 clearances were double that of next best Marc Murphy, while his game-high three goal assists and 10 scoring involvements indicate just how damaging he was in the Blues’ attacking half. When the Bombers mounted a serious challenge, Gibbs stood up, creating a goal out of nothing to give Carlton the ascendancy at the final break.

Dale Thomas
Game-high 14 contested possessions

Dale Thomas set the tone early with a wonderful crumbing goal, before continuing on his merry ways to produce his best performance in the Navy Blue. When the Blues needed a spark and their leaders to stand tall, Thomas delivered in spades. His game-high 14 contested possessions highlighted just how prolific he was in the clinches, while his six tackles in the first quarter helped the Blues lock the ball in their forward half for the majority of the term.

Ed Curnow
Game-high 7 inside-50s

The Blues had a healthy 63 inside-50s to Essendon’s 47, but couldn’t capitalise on their dominance. Ed Curnow generated a game-high seven of those 63 inside-50s, despite playing a tagging role on David Zaharakis. His ability to work tirelessly between the 50m arcs ensured the Blues won the midfield battle.

Kade Simpson
Game-high 4 intercept marks

Carlton’s oldest player continues to deliver off half-back this season, and is playing a starring role in the Blues’ much-improved defence. When the Blues were challenged, Kade Simpson’s ability to read the play shone brightest: his game-high four intercept marks came at crucial stages and helped him launch a team-high six rebound-50s.

Nick Graham
Game-high 8 tackles

Nick Graham was a welcome addition to Carlton’s line-up in Round 6, adding hardness and grunt on his way to a game-high eight tackles and 23 pressure acts. Though he had a quiet first half with just eight possessions, he finished with 22 thanks to a strong second half.

Who impressed you most against Essendon? Head to the Hyundai Engine Room to vote in the Hyundai Fans' MVP award: www.hyundaiengineroom.com.au