Jack Newnes | 2021 Season Review

Written by Ari Stamatakos

SEASON SYNOPSIS

Jack Newnes was an unknown commodity heading into 2020, and after the surprisingly good year he had, he was the exact opposite of that in 2021. He gave the Blues a brand-new dynamic, a goal-kicking midfielder who was disciplined and smart enough to do the defensive side of the game as well. He kicked 13 goals last year and many fans were expecting a similar output this year. His year started fantastically, having a season-best game against the Tigers, before slowly petering down the ladder as the season went on. The goals dried up and he wasn’t having a lot of influence in other areas of the ground. This led to him being dropped after a poor performance against the Dogs. He returned 4 rounds later against the Eagles, but never found a solid place and didn’t influence the game as much as he should’ve. There was no goal after the siren to bail him out of relatively poor performances this year and despite seeing the season out, he didn’t have any moments which ‘wowed’ the fans, and his 10-possession game against the Giants to end the year could spell the end for his time as a regular wearer of the Navy Blue. 

BEST PERFORMANCE 

Jack Newnes was one of the very few players in the Carlton side who started like a house on fire. He continued his stellar 2020 form right into round 1 where he was arguably Carlton best player on the night. Playing a very tough role on the wing, he ditched the goalkicking midfielder ways of 2020 and focused on playing a solid, team-focused game without taking any of the headlines. He had 27 disposals, 10 marks, 85% disposal efficiency, 8 intercept possessions, 7 score involvements and 338 metres gained. It was a very selfless role which was crucial to the Blues having any chance in that game. His game was set up to allow the likes of Cripps and Walsh the chance to thrive, and in the first half that was working to a tee. But the Tigers - like all good sides - stifled the plan before it could get very damaging and Newnes fantastic game went unrewarded. Unfortunately, as mentioned, this was the high point of the season for Newnes, as he was unable to capture this form on a regular basis, having middling games without breaking too many stats sheets for the rest of the season.

OFF-SEASON & 2021 OUTLOOK

While his season wasn’t the worst by any stretch of the imagination, I think it is time to move on. He will be 29 by the time that the season starts and there are players with alot higher ceilings than Newnes who could easily fill his void. While he is and will be a fantastic depth player - versatile enough to play different roles and has experience on his side - for The Blues to be a genuine finals threat, I don’t think Jack Newnes is a part of that team. We picked him up for nothing so there isn’t any danger in letting him go for the same. He will forever be remembered for THAT goal and etched his name in Carlton folklore forever. If he does continue to play a consistent role in this side, then he does provide us with solidity and discipline, something this side lacks. 

2021 REPORT CARD RATING

C-

STATUS HEADING INTO 2022 

Fringe 22