Kreuzer wins Rising Star nomination
10/06/2008 12:03 PM
Carlton ruckman/forward Matthew Kreuzer's three final-quarter goals which helped spark the Blues' come-from-behind victory over Port Adelaide have earned the 19-year-old the Round 11 nomination for the NAB AFL Rising Star award.
Kreuzer's move to full-forward in the final term when the Blues were trailing by 30 points at three-quarter time proved to be pivotal.
The No.1 selection at last year's NAB AFL Draft has played nine games after making his debut in Round 3.
After graduating from the 2005 AIS-AFL Academy Squad, Kreuzer was named Vic Metro's MVP and All-Australian after the 2007 NAB AFL Under 18 Championships.
He also won the Northern Knights' best and fairest and the TAC Cup's best and fairest award, the Morrish Medal.
Carlton Coach Brett Ratten said Kreuzer's first few months at AFL level have been outstanding.
"Matthew has continued to impress during his debut season," said Ratten.
"His ability to play in numerous positions has been of enormous benefit to the team."
"For a player to have had such an impact on a game so early in his footy career is a rarity."
“He is a level-headed kid, mature beyond his years, and a real pleasure to coach."