A TEAM victory reflected in the votes. 

Seven Blues have featured in the AFLCA Champion Player of the Year votes for Carlton’s seven-point win over North Melbourne.

Marc Murphy and Lachie Plowman were dubbed the game’s most influential, with five votes each awarded by their coaches.

Murphy was punishing through the centre with 22 disposals (10 contested) and three clearances, but also proved a vital link inside 50 with five entries.

Equally as important down back, Plowman finished the day with 18 disposals (four contested), seven marks and a game-high nine intercept possessions.

In his third game for the season, Matthew Kennedy is emerging as a key link for the Blues: he was awarded four votes for his efforts at the Gabba.

The third-year Blue was crucial on Saturday, with his two early goals crucial in Carlton banking a lead which it would ultimately never surrender for the game.

Carlton’s midfield prowess was next to be recognised by the coaches in Round 8, with Sam Walsh, Marc Pittonet and Ed Curnow each collecting three votes. 

The midfield contingent played a big part in the Blues outclassing the Kangaroos at the coalface, finishing nine clearances ahead come the final siren.

Naturally, Jacob Weitering was the last of the Blues to be recognised, collecting two votes for his shutdown role on Ben Brown: he kept North's danger man to just one goal on his way to a fifth lot of coaches' votes from eight games. 

AFLCA votes for Round 8

Marc Murphy - five, Lachie Plowman - five, Matthew Kennedy - four, Jared Polec - four, Ed Curnow - three, Marc Pittonet - three, Sam Walsh - three, Jacob Weitering - two, Luke McDonald - one

Charlie Dixon - 10, Tom Jonas - seven, Sam Walsh - five, Peter Ladhams - four, Trent McKenzie - two, Jacob Weitering - one, Ollie Wines - one