CARLTON’S inside midfield duo have both received AFLCA Champion Player of the Year votes for Round 1.

After starring for the Blues against the reigning premiers, it comes as no real surprise that Sam Walsh and Patrick Cripps both received coaches’ votes for the opening game.

Walsh - who received six votes - was Carlton’s best player on the night, with the 20-year-old showcasing exactly why the pre-season prediction was that he’d take his game to another level.

After starring on the wing for the majority of 2020, Walsh was stationed at the centre bounce on Thursday night, winning his own ball and showcasing his aggression at the contest.

So often touted for his running ability, Walsh’s inside game stood out, with 13 of his 31 disposals being contested while also recording six clearances.

He was well-supported by co-captain Cripps, who was back to his bullocking best on Thursday night.

With 28 disposals and a team-high 10 score involvements, Cripps’ aggression and desire to take it to the reigning premier was never more evident than his assist for Michael Gibbons’ second-quarter snap.

Of course, both Blues aren’t strangers to polling coaches’ votes. Cripps finished second in 2018 and fifth in 2019, while Walsh won the AFLCA’s Best Young Player award last year for most votes accrued in his first two seasons.

AFLCA votes for Round 1:
Dustin Martin — 10, Jack Graham — seven, Sam Walsh — six, Jack Riewoldt — five, Patrick Cripps — one, Kane Lambert — one