Game Review

The 14th placed Demons came out full of aggression - so great that they would hand Carlton several goals from frees and 50m penalties. It was goal for goal early but the Demons would be handed 2 goals from the umpires without the ball going back to the centre to suddenly take a decisive advantage. An 8 goal to 3 second quarter would give them a half time lead of 38 points. This was extended further in the third quarter to 49 points, after kicking 5 goals to 3. The match seemed over at the final change.

But in the final quarter, the Blues rallied to kick 8 unanswered goals and get within one point of the Demons. With all the momentum, a miraculous come from behind victory seemed certain. But Melbourne kicked the next 3 goals, while Carlton appeared spent and ended up winning by 19 points.

Best players were Brent Heaver with 20 possessions and a goal, Brett Ratten with 28, Justin Murphy with 19 and 3 goals, Craig Bradley with 20 and 2 goals and Stephen Kernahan with 4 goals. Melbourne's David Neitz was having a purple patch & kicked eight goals. All were from set shots & he never looked like missing one.

Suddenly players such as Brad Pearce who previously had looked so competent were dropping chest marks & making the easy look ridiculously hard. The team this particular day didn't appear remotely interested in competing until the game appeared all over.

This unexpected loss would see Carlton drop from 4th position to 5th, placing it at risk of having to travel interstate for its finals.

Team

Video

https://youtu.be/GIxhsj8B4OU