Luke Shuey has always been an explosive midfielder, but in 2016 he took his consistency to a new level. His blistering speed and connection with ruckman Nic Naitanui were a highlight, but his impact on games and influence inside the contest were the hallmarks of his evolution this year.
Shuey achieved career highs in disposals, tackles, rebound 50s, clearances, goal assists, contested possessions and uncontested possessions to establish himself as one of the Eagles' most influential players. At the end of season 2016 he was ranked 22nd for total disposals, fourth for clearances, fourth for tackles, 10th for contested possessions and fourth for goal assists in the AFL, the highest of any midfielder in the competition.
2016 season highlights
Kicks: 18 vs GWS Giants Rd 21
Handballs: 22 vs Western Bulldogs W1
Disposals: 38 vs GWS Giants Rd 21
Marks: 5 vs Collingwood Rd 19
Tackles: 10 vs Fremantle Rd 20
Goals: 2 vs GWS Giants Rd 21
AFL Fantasy: 142 vs GWS Giants Rd 21
Matches to remember:
Round 3 v Fremantle
Shuey was simply awesome against the Eagles’ cross-town rivals in the first Saturday night Derby in over a decade. Working closely with inside machine Matt Priddis, Shuey was tough at the coalface and was a key factor in the Eagles’ victory. Shuey had 31 disposals - 10 of which were contested - but also influenced the scoreboard by dishing off two goal assists and booting one of his own to help turn the game West Coast's way. He also laid six tackles, had two rebound-50s, four inside-50s, racked up seven clearances and had three one percenters.
Round 21 v GWS
Shuey may not have played a better game in his AFL career. He had 38 possessions - 23 of them contested - and racked up 13 clearances. He also had six inside-50s, five rebound-50s and stuck six effective tackles.
When the game was on the line he stepped up, along with his close mate Nic Naitanui. Shuey imposed himself on the contest and still managed to have a profound influence as the clock ticked down to its conclusion with two goal assists and two crucial last-quarter goals.
Round 23 v Adelaide
The Eagles’ midfield monstered the Crows in another top-four clash, and again, Shuey was everywhere and one of the best on the ground. Splitting his time both inside and outside the contest, the 26-year-old was influential from the outset. He finished the night with 31 disposals, eight tackles and six inside-50s. He also had three rebound-50s and four clearances.
