Umpire: Wregg

Goalkickers: G.Topping 2, M.Grace 2, F.Jinks 2, G.Bruce 1, R.McGregor 1, J.Marchbank 1.

Best: J.Flynn, F.Jinks, F.Elliott, G.Johnson, C.Hammond, M.Gotz, R.McGregor, G.Bruce.

Reports: Injuries: M.Gotz (shoulder) left the field early in third term

Game Review

With his team having won the last four games of the season by an average of 40 points, Carlton coach Jack Worrall made just the one change for the Semi Final clash against Collingwood at Fitzroy’s Brunswick St Oval. Defender Les Beck made way for the pace and poise of vice-captain George Bruce, while the Magpies made five changes to a side that had been comfortably beaten by the Blues at both their previous meetings.

In front of a slightly disappointing crowd of 15,000, Worrall’s team bounced out the blocks, and at the first break the advantage was an even three goals. Collingwood then rallied, and whittled the gap down to only three points as the final quarter began. The Blues would not be subdued however, and their slick teamwork in the last 15 minutes saw them hold on to win by 10 points.

Carlton’s best player was captain Jim Flynn, who used his experience to great effect and gave his rovers first use of the football. Flynn’s co-followers – Fred Jinks and ‘Pompey’ Elliott provided excellent support, while defenders ‘Mallee’ Johnson and Martin Gotz were tireless in defence.

A few minutes after the conclusion of this match, word came through that Fitzroy had easily accounted for Essendon in the Semi Final at the MCG. The die was cast, and the Navy Blues and the Maroons would face off for the 1906 Premiership, on the following Saturday afternoon at the MCG.

The Grand Final review in next week's The Leader, September 29, said in this match against Collingwood, Carlton had played with 17 men for nearly half of the game.

Martin Gotz

"Just after half-time, Gotz the Carlton half-back, one of the best back men playing, put his shoulder out, retired from playing the game. Gotz has been playing magnificently, and kept Rowell, the famous Magpie forward, in complete check. (Referee September 19 p10)

Elliott & Flynn

'Pompey' Elliott, Carlton's ruck idol, and Captain Flynn were chaired by admiring supporters, and carried triumphantly to their dressing-rooms."
(Referee September 19 p10)

Team

Changes

In: G.Bruce
Out: L.Beck

Milestones

Score Records: This was the first of 8 consecutive finals wins by Carlton, a club record winning streak at the business end of the season.