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. 27, Matthew Lobbe.

GAMES

2018: 6

Career: 98

GOALS
2018: 1
Career: 22 

BY THE NUMBERS (averages in brackets)
Hit outs: 212 (35.3) Disposals: 59 (9.8) Marks: 14 (2.3) Tackles: 29 (4.8) Contested possessions: 32 (5.3) One percenters: 24 (4.2) Clearances: 16 (2.7)

2018 IN FOCUS
Called upon to fill the gap left by Matthew Kreuzer's absence, Matthew Lobbe came to the Blues’ rescue against the Hawks in Round 18.

In his Carlton debut, the former Port Adelaide vice-captain made a big impact, amassing season-high kicks (nine) and inside 50s (two), as well as 37 hitouts and four clearances.

The 200cm ruckman backed up the performance the following week in Carlton’s triumph over Gold Coast, tallying a season-high 46 hitouts. He achieved consistency throughout the remainder of the season, ranking seventh across the league for hitouts per game (35.33).

Lobbe ensured he was seen as much more than a fill-in in 2018, adding experience and a tireless work ethic to the Blues’ mix.

BEST PERFORMANCE
Lobbe stood up in Carlton’s 29-point loss to Fremantle at Optus Stadium in Round 21. The 29-year-old accumulated 14 disposals, five marks, five tackles, 28 hitouts and a major against the Dockers.

SEASON HIGHLIGHT
After his huge effort to help get the Blues over the line against the Suns, Lobbe celebrated his first win at Carlton alongside Cameron Polson and Matthew Kennedy, being given the traditional Gatorade shower by his teammates.