Over the month of October, NMFC.com.au will be reviewing each player’s 2014 season.

Season highlights, their statistics and quotes from the player from the course of the year will be included.

Season statistics

Games: 25
Goals: 13
Disposals: 552
Contested disposals: 289
Marks: 87
Tackles: 140
Clearances: 144

More statistics in the player profile

Season highlights

Round 4 v Sydney
- 30 disposals, 11 clearances, 10 tackles, 3 Brownlow Medal votes

2014 Syd Barker Medalist

Season in review

In the absence of Andrew Swallow early in 2014, more responsibility was placed on Ben Cunnington and he repaid the faith handsomely.

The midfielder was instrumental in early season victories over Port Adelaide and Sydney, picking up back-to-back best on grounds. Not only was Cunnington’s clearance work top-notch, he also increased his tackling output.

His 140 tackles for the season was comfortably a career-high, beating his previous best mark of 107, set in 2012. The balance of defensive and offensive work at stoppages enabled the midfielder to become a rounded threat.

Throughout the season, Cunnington was also a threat delivering the ball into attack. He ranked third at the club for total inside 50’s.

Heading into the Syd Barker Medal, Cunnington was one of the favourites. Lurking around the top of the leaderboard for the entire evening, the number 10 took the lead in the Elimination Final and held on for a thrilling one-vote victory.

In the news

January 28 – Cunnington plans ahead – NMFC.com.au

“In the last couple of years I've remembered why I was drafted. The last time I got dropped I went back, played on instinct and it's worked out all right from there.''

April 9 – Cunnington relishes challenge – NMFC.com.au

“It's (Sydney) going to be a huge test for us, and we're up for the challenge just to see where we're at as a team. To go up there, we can't wait for the challenge."

April 25 – Road Tripping:  Basty and Cunners – NMFC.com.au

(on worst roommate) “I’ve roomed with Cutie Loose and I don’t think he’s that bad. It’s more Goldy (Todd Goldstein) because he snores.”