John Worsfold Medal preview: Luke Shuey
Luke Shuey has always been an explosive midfielder, but in 2015 he took his consistency and impact to a new level. His blistering speed and connection with ruckman Nic Naitanui were a highlight all season, with many regarding them the number one centre square ruck-mid combination in the competition.
Shuey achieved career highs in goals, tackles, clearances, uncontested possessions and goal assists to be one of the most influential Eagles all season. At the end of season 2015 he was ranked 15th for total disposals, 17th for contested possessions, eighth for clearances and equal second for centre clearances in the AFL.
2015 season highlights
Kicks: 16 v Gold Coast Rnd18
Handballs: 19 v Western Bulldogs Rnd21
Disposals: 33 v Gold Coast Rnd18
Marks: 7 v Gold Coast Rnd7
Tackles: 9 v Fremantle Rnd20
Three matches to remember:
Round 5 v GWS
The Giants came into the game in second position on the ladder having beaten Hawthorn in the lead up, so the Eagles knew it was going to be a tough ask. While he didn’t get the Brownlow votes, Shuey was influential all night gathering 24 disposals, laying five tackles and booting two goals.
Round 6 v Port Adelaide
The Port Adelaide game will always be remembered for Shuey’s two final-quarter goals, including the sealer with less than a minute to play. While others may have been more prolific on the night, Shuey was one of the Eagles’ more influential players with his 23 disposals, six tackles and two goals.
Round 8 v St Kilda
Against the Saints in round eight the Eagles still had doubters as to whether they were the real deal, and the plucky Saints outfit were tipped to test the Eagles on the quick Etihad stadium deck. Luke Shuey put in a commanding performance, dominating in the middle of the ground and running the young Saints ragged. Shuey gathered 28 disposals, and kicked a goal while earning three Brownlow votes.
CLICK HERE from 7.30pm WST to view a free live stream of the 2015 John Worsfold Medal
