Games: 24
Goals: 22
Kicks: 286
Marks: 111
Handballs: 150

THE FAN’S RATING: 5.9 / 10

What the fans had to say:

“Played good footy this year-he went after the ball for himself, and he also helped set up goals for his team mates. He is a very valuable player on the Dons side. Go Cara!” Billie Preston.

“A mixed season hampered by several concussions. If Blake plays on the forward line he kicks goals or sets them up. If he plays elsewhere he doesn't really hurt the opposition. If used correctly by the selectors and coaches can still be an excellent player.” Ross Hamilton

“Solid year. Shouldn't be judged harshly for missing those shots in the final against Port. Carried more of the load and responsibility when injured players went down. Will want more goals next year.” Scott Trickett.

“Was very good in patches, however seems to play his best footy when the whole team is up. Can go missing at times. Blake had to shoulder greater responsibility when other players were out and often tagged in those games. Also played in different roles away from goals but got through it OK. Set to experience greatly from this year.” Mark Occhipinti

“Patchy at best, has the skills to turn a game on his own but looked like he did not want to be there this year.” Marika Armstrong.

“Too inconsistent. Had some fantastic games but also some very mediocre ones. With all the injuries throughout the year needed to step up, but didn't.” Graeme Wensor.

“Didn't seem to have the same confidence as 2000 & 2001. It appeared early year concussion affected him and he seemed reluctant to put his head over the ball. This seemed to lead to increased fumbling.” Paul Patrick.

“Blake is a top player whose form along with others dropped off marginally during 2002. Needs to pick up a little in mental hardness area and try not to over-finesse. Several times ran into open goals but tried to kick around corners resulting in important misses (not only in finals games against Pt Adel). Should bounce back and hope to keep.” John Stone.

THE WASH UP:

Most Essendon fans felt Caracella was short of his best form in 2002, with some feeling his early season concussions were a contributing factor. However the majority of fans felt he is still a very valuable player at the club with his ability around goal and in the mid-field his major asset.

MARK HARVEY SAYS:

I think the fan’s rating of Blake is a little light on to be honest – I would have thought he deserved around the seven for his season. And I base that on the fact that he is a 20-plus possessions per game player who can kick goals – I think that makes you pretty important. He is also one of our most accurate kicks for goal. I don’t think people should under-estimate the importance of a player like Blake – a really good link player who is smart around stoppages. Supporters should also remember that in the past two years he has been the first or second player that opposition sides have tagged so they obviously rate him highly.