The Carlton Football Club began the first leg of its journey under senior coach Brendon Bolton in 2016.
After notching up seven wins for the season – three more than last year – the Blues ended up finishing 14th on the ladder.
With the team now on a break, we’re taking a look back at each player’s year in statistics. Here’s the review for Carlton’s No. 38, Ciaran Byrne:
GAMES
Season 2016: 11
Career: 12
GOALS
Season 2016: 0
Career: 0
KEY AFL STATISTICS (averages in brackets)
Disposals: 184 (16.73) Kicks: 103 (9.36) Marks: 148 (4.36) Contested Possessions: 59 (5.36) Uncontested Possessions: 127 (11.55) Tackles: 24 (2.18)
OVERVIEW
For the first time since he arrived at Ikon Park, Ciaran Byrne managed to play consistent footy, becoming a staple in the Blues’ backline.
His strong hands and daring run and dash, coupled with his fierce desire for the contest, made the young Irishman a formidable opponent for any opposition player.
However despite a very promising beginning to the year – that saw him play 11 senior games – Byrne suffered a disappointing season-ending injury.
Blues fans watched in horror as the emerging young defender took an awkward fall competing for the ball, and was consequently stretchered off the field. Scans later revealed he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.
The resilient Blue will once again endure rehab, so he’s ready to get back out on the track as soon as possible.
He said it:
“I’m really lost for words, probably the best feeling ever being at the Club for three years and to get the first win is an amazing feeling.”
– Byrne speaks to Carlton Media post the Round 5 victory against Fremantle.
They said it:
"Long term injuries are always disappointing, particularly as Ciaran was having a really solid season so far. Ciaran is a resilient young man and will have the Club's full support throughout this process."
– Head of Football Andrew McKay speaks to Carlton Media following Byrne’s Round 15 injury.
Season Highlight:
Blues fans had plenty to cheer about after Round 7’s victory against Collingwood at the MCG. Carlton walked away 15-point winners, with ‘Casey’ not only managing 13 disposals and six kicks, but also taking down Pie Darcy Moore in a merciless first-quarter tackle, earning him Carlton’s ‘Tackle of the Week’.
