I'll be at this one, and it sounds like I won't be alone. Remember to use to this thread after the game!
Well, we got there, but it was a grind in the end.
I wonder if McGovern tweaked a hammy, it does look that way.
Well, we got there, but it was a grind in the end.
Yes, nothing really convincing in that win. Plenty of issues that need fixing. Defending was off the charts great. Jack Martin you star.
Thank fcuk!!!!!!
I was dreading playing the Swans more than, say, playing Collingwood. Hardest side in the world to beat at this time of the year (unless you are Geelong).
Any finals win is a good win and breaks a long drought, win lose or draw next week its been a good result for 2023 and some serious progression. Harry will cop plenty of flak but you have to take the good and the bad with him a bit like the Pies did with Travis Cloke who played in a similar frustrating way.
Kudos to Weitering who continues to show why he should be the AA fullback and I thought Cerra showed why we recruited him and Sam Walsh was back to some of his best footy too.
Yes, nothing really convincing in that win. Plenty of issues that need fixing. Defending was off the charts great. Jack Martin you star.
Fortunately, Melbourne had a heap of issues last night too. No idea where next week goes.
Can see was getting to a PF but if we do that interstate trip might be a bridge too far. Be good progression for us though.
Suppose in 1995 our crappiest final was week 1 against Brisbane, who were 8th. Slaughtered everyone else.
I need to see a heart specialist after that, thought we were going to choke.
And of all the people to take two match-saving marks deep in defence ........ one of my whipping boys Jack Martin. He''ll get 2-weeks for belting Blakey though.
So many uncharacteristic actions tonight, a lot of the things we have done over the past couple of months seem to go out the door tonight.
McKay was really horrible, just so out of sorts, that concussion may be a blessing in disguise anyway.
Can't serve up that sort of crap next week against the Dees, they will walk all over us if we do. They are ripe for the picking if we want it bad enough.
Really hope that tonight's game style (or lack of it) was just a one-off blip due to finals nerves after not being there for 10-years and we return to that confident style that got us there.
I’m rapt. We won. Sure there are negatives but we won a final guys!!! Hasnt happened for 10 years!
Charlie Cripps harry didn’t have big games and yet and we won. We beat last years grand finalist and are now in the final 6. I’m
Very happy.
Next week is winnable but even if we lose I’m proud with the progress this year.
Let’s enjoy this as winning finals is not easy
Outstanding win against a seasoned finals team.
What stood out for me was Motlop, Dow, Fisher and Hollands having a run on the G after the game. We’re taking nothing for granted.
Blake Acres was huge. Worth whatever we gave away with change.
Fortunately, Melbourne had a heap of issues last night too. No idea where next week goes.
Can see was getting to a PF but if we do that interstate trip might be a bridge too far. Be good progression for us though.
Suppose in 1995 our crappiest final was week 1 against Brisbane, who were 8th. Slaughtered everyone else.
Cant see Melbourne having so many of their class players down and have this feeling Grundy might be wanting to impress his new suitors and be picked and play well(knowing our luck). No Stress really for us as we have done well to get to where we have and established the club as a power again and Im happy with that for this season and as long as we dont fall in a screaming heap vs the Dees even a credible loss builds a decent platform for next season.
Blake Acres was huge. Worth whatever we gave away with change.
Plays a sensible game and doesnt play too many bad ones...thanks Freo and Luke Jackson for stretching their cap and finances.
I need to see a heart specialist after that, thought we were going to choke.
And of all the people to take two match-saving marks deep in defence ........ one of my whipping boys Jack Martin. He''ll get 2-weeks for belting Blakey though.
So many uncharacteristic actions tonight, a lot of the things we have done over the past couple of months seem to go out the door tonight.
McKay was really horrible, just so out of sorts, that concussion may be a blessing in disguise anyway.
Can't serve up that sort of crap next week against the Dees, they will walk all over us if we do. They are ripe for the picking if we want it bad enough.
Really hope that tonight's game style (or lack of it) was just a one-off blip due to finals nerves after not being there for 10-years and we return to that confident style that got us there.
As you know Finals footy is either non too pretty or a complete blow out and having a tough win and hanging on is all part of the drill as you build towards a flag. Swans got close but were never a threat imho and we had them covered.
Agree the Dees will be harder and have a few more weapons than the Swans who need to re-equip post Buddy...
I need to see a heart specialist after that, thought we were going to choke.
And of all the people to take two match-saving marks deep in defence ........ one of my whipping boys Jack Martin. He''ll get 2-weeks for belting Blakey though.
So many uncharacteristic actions tonight, a lot of the things we have done over the past couple of months seem to go out the door tonight.
McKay was really horrible, just so out of sorts, that concussion may be a blessing in disguise anyway.
Can't serve up that sort of crap next week against the Dees, they will walk all over us if we do. They are ripe for the picking if we want it bad enough.
Really hope that tonight's game style (or lack of it) was just a one-off blip due to finals nerves after not being there for 10-years and we return to that confident style that got us there.
Well done Blues, we did something Essendon have been trying to do for the last 100 years!! Win a final!! We won ugly, but we WON!!
Our defence was very solid all night. Weiters and kemp were pillars all night and structurally we are very sound down back. Had a few nervous moments late but overall and esp early on when the heat was on we looked composed and made it against an experienced finals team very difficult to score. Many including me were critical on Voss with his gameplan early in the year focusing so much on defence and in the biggest game for the last 10 years our defence was very reliable and consistent.
Credit where credit is due. Hats off to you Voss.
Swans are a well coached quality side. Absolutely thrilled with that win. We'll learn so much. Some of my highlights..
- Doc' opening goal
- the contested dominance
- high pressure
- ability to absorb Swans high pressure
- shining performance by those lesser
stars
- non reliance on bigger names
- ability to bounce back or at least hold firm when Swans got a run
- final siren celebrations
- the attitude of every player across 4q
- BT having to be nice to the winners
Such an amazing couple of months. Kudos to Vossy and the entire club for staying the course 👏🏼
Go Blues
Great tough win to hold on.
We are in good hands with Cerra and Walsh leading the midfield next 10 years
Alot of wtf moments and alot of moments where defensive hardness and brutality won the game.
Harry is a definite out.
Saw the replay with Martin and that looked like a high free kick in a football action.. So I think he should play despite media going nuts over it.
Hoping SOS is good to go.
That game nearly made me pass out! Why do we make such hard work of it?! Had H put that gimme in front of goals Away, I feel like we would’ve annihilated them. Instead they get a run on 🤦🏻♀️
Unbelievable Martin down back, thank you sir In those last few minutes!! Newman a mark on their f50 😅 Crippas goal, Cerras goal, Cotters at one stage seemingly the only one holding his nerve and keeping his brain!
Swans were always going to come back and see us defend it to the death, unbelievable. Did Charlie get one free kick from being constantly held? Don’t think so.
We are ON next week - we have nothing to lose, shackles will be off, I feel good about it, Go Blues
💪🏼
Well that was a heart stopper, I was pretty laid back and calm all week and during the game but that last quarter was tough. I kept thinking 2022 all over again, led all night and would get it pinched from us. Thankfully they held on.
I thought Acres was mighty, his work rate is off the charts.
Weiters, Saad and Kemp were supermen in defence.
Walsh was superb in the middle.
Harry made the selectors job easy next week, just before he went off I said to my daughter "he is in danger of getting dropped if we make it to next week". I get that structurally he gives us something but as a key fwd, your job is to kick goals, not miss them from the goal square.
I just looked at the stats, 19 frees a piece. Before I looked I thought it would be heavily in Syd's favour. I thought the umpiring was atrocious and appeared to favour Syd watching at the ground. Frees given to their fwds were not given to ours (I felt).
Sat in the goal square with all the ferals at the Punt Rd end. Unreal atmosphere. Loved it. CARNA BLUE BAGGERS!
Tonight was one of those almost games from H. he got his hands on the ball a lot, but didn't quite pull in the marks. His kicking at goal was diabolical. But his size and strength were creating problems for Sydney. When he went off, we lacked a tall target: when Charlie led out, there was no other timber to kick to. It allowed Sydney to make a lot of turnovers in our forward 50.
I am sure that he would have been a lot better next week, but for his concussion. Losing him is going to cause a number of structural issues for us in the forward half.
Option 1 is Jack Silvagni, but how fit he is remains the issue.
Option 2 is moving Kemp forward and bringing up either Young or Sam Durdin. Durdin's body strength would have been handy at times, as the Sydney tall forwards took some clutch marks after half time.
I like the way Kemp is developing in defence, but we are short of guys who can replace H. Lemmey is a long way off, and he is the only other one who plays that role.
Option 3: Play Matthew Kennedy forward. He can take a decent grab and has depth in his kicking.
I'm not sure I like any of our choices, but I can't think of anything else.
Tonight was one of those almost games from H. he got his hands on the ball a lot, but didn't quite pull in the marks. His kicking at goal was diabolical. But his size and strength were creating problems for Sydney. When he went off, we lacked a tall target: when Charlie led out, there was no other timber to kick to. It allowed Sydney to make a lot of turnovers in our forward 50.
I am sure that he would have been a lot better next week, but for his concussion. Losing him is going to cause a number of structural issues for us in the forward half.
Option 1 is Jack Silvagni, but how fit he is remains the issue.
Option 2 is moving Kemp forward and bringing up either Young or Sam Durdin. Durdin's body strength would have been handy at times, as the Sydney tall forwards took some clutch marks after half time.
I like the way Kemp is developing in defence, but we are short of guys who can replace H. Lemmey is a long way off, and he is the only other one who plays that role.
Option 3: Play Matthew Kennedy forward. He can take a decent grab and has depth in his kicking.
I'm not sure I like any of our choices, but I can't think of anything else.
I don't share your optimism that Harry would be better next week if he were able to play.
Leaving aside that in the Swan's match he was once again a motivation killer, the fact is that since his return to the side we have gone back to the same old predictable approach of entry into the forward line, namely, coming around the flanks and kicking long to the forward line.
During the time he was out injured our plan of attack was quite different - bringing the ball through the centre corridor as quickly as possible, denying the opposition backmen the chance to settle, and allowing our small forwards freedom of movement.
If he is not available for selection against Melbourne, I hope we return to the plan which has brought us success.
Kennedy and Silvagni make sense to be in the side if possible. Both have great work ethics and defensive abilities along with goal kicking skill. Great win. If we didn’t have a few of those what f@#k the moments at point blank range, it would not have been a nail biting close result. We must take the good with the good/bad. Enjoy the win and move to the next contest. We haven’t been in this situation for so long that we need to embrace the glory of victory. I hope Cripps ribs are good. He looked like they are bothering him. Woohoo for now. Woooohooooo.
Tonight was one of those almost games from H. he got his hands on the ball a lot, but didn't quite pull in the marks. His kicking at goal was diabolical. But his size and strength were creating problems for Sydney. When he went off, we lacked a tall target: when Charlie led out, there was no other timber to kick to. It allowed Sydney to make a lot of turnovers in our forward 50.
I am sure that he would have been a lot better next week, but for his concussion. Losing him is going to cause a number of structural issues for us in the forward half.
Option 1 is Jack Silvagni, but how fit he is remains the issue.
Option 2 is moving Kemp forward and bringing up either Young or Sam Durdin. Durdin's body strength would have been handy at times, as the Sydney tall forwards took some clutch marks after half time.
I like the way Kemp is developing in defence, but we are short of guys who can replace H. Lemmey is a long way off, and he is the only other one who plays that role.
Option 3: Play Matthew Kennedy forward. He can take a decent grab and has depth in his kicking.
I'm not sure I like any of our choices, but I can't think of anything else.
You must have been the bloke sitting next me last night, at one point he turns to me and says "tonight is an almost game for H" ;D
Harry's miss from directly in front was a momentum changer.
I wonder whether the noise (and advice) about his around the corner kicking has him all over the shop.
Pretty sure he would have kicked it with the 'around the corner' but he would have been criticised for using it from that position.
Just let him do his thing.
The counter argument is that while that was a 'momentum changer', we were a lot poorer once he went off.
So, what was the greater problem..the miss or his absence.
He'll be missed next week against the Lever/ May combination
Acres was very good again but that shoulder is an issue.
As is Cripps's ribs...he's obviously playing injured...again.
By the way as good as Acres is don't forget to include an "Acres-out of bounds on the full" in your multis, it's a sure thing.
Until you play finals you don't really know which of your players stand up in these games.
Matty Cottrell...well done.
It's actually more likely you will get that performance from your 100% effort players.
I think Jack Silvagni would show something similar in finals.
I hope he gets the chance.
It's a bit of a concern no signing has been announced. I would have thought if they were going to do it, that it would have been done before last night's game, which could have potentially been our season over.
Obviously it's not a done deal yet.
Watched the Martin incident just then, I think he is gone. Smacked Blakey in the jaw the with this right fist, left arm isn't even in contact with Blakeys body in a tackle motion.
Pretty crook with a bit of cold last night but still went to the game. After waiting so long not much would have stopped me. Another surreal atmosphere. So one-sided was the crowd that the noise was deafening when we scored and dead quiet when they did. Got home and watched it all again. Went to bed but this cold is getting me up early. Due to collapse soon but while I'm still coherent my thoughts on players games, for what it's worth.
Acres - Would suggest the difference between winning and losing this game. TWO on the line touches and kicks the match winning goal. Pretty decent output and under some duress I think. Also had his mandatory OOF. BOG
Cerra - Really close to BOG. Probably 2nd. Just does so much work and so hard at it.
Cincotta - Solid game.
Cottrell - One of the best. Massive work rate, kicks goals has really improved over the years.
Cripps - Relatively quiet by his standards and I think his ribs aren't quite right but he kicked a bloody goal! A couple of is turnovers were shocking as well. Hopefully each day his body gets a bit better. Need him big time next week.
Cuningham - Not a great game by Davie. His form has been down of late and may be under pressure to retain his spot next week, but he DID kick a goal!
De Koning - A really good game by TDK and probably could have kicked a couple but for some slack umpiring. His effort in the last to instigate our only goal was fantastic.
Docherty - OK without being outstanding. Played on Gulden at times which wasn't ideal, but was thereabouts.
Fogarty - Applies pressure and gets a run on the ball a fair bit. Voss obviously values him.
Hewett - Pretty damn good game by George. He been building well since his return to the team and is showing his old form. Let's hope he stays fit.
Kemp - Another solid backman and apart from one MAJOR stuff-up did well.
Marchbank - Surprised by how well he played. On that form he stays.
Martin - So very important to the team. If you had to rely on someone kicking for goal he'd be first cab off the rank. His last quarter defensively play was enormous (bar the ball rolling through his legs for the swans last goal). Hope he gets off but doubt it.
McGovern - Some good work by Mitch but he also had a major stuff-up that cost us a goal.
McKay - Had the first 2 goal assists of the game and I thought this could be his night but alas was not meant to be. Still think he is in our best 22 but the yips are proving to be extremely problematic.
Motlop - Zero impact, Which was disappointing given the conditions. Know he wasn't on for long but Paddy Dow does heaps more in similar circumstances.
Newman - Couple of crucial plays and when he took that last mark, the euphoria was overwhelming. Apart from one MAJOR stuff-up did well. Common theme here.
Owies - Only highlight for this bloke was his insane decision to try and handball while running into an open goal. Yes Vossy, WTF was he thinking. Only Motlop was less effective than he.
Pittonet - Hmmmmmm, battled hard. That's all I can say.
Saad - GREAT. One of his best games for quite some time and couldn't come at a better time. One of the only backmen who DIDN'T have a major stuff-up
Walsh - Really, really good game by the kid. I will say however at times he did choose the wrong option which concerns me but I'm probably a bit too critical.
Weitering - Probably the coolest of cucumbers in the chaos. When so many were panicking his class stood out.
Overall another great relief, but how many more of these can we all take? Funny, listening to the radio in the car on the way home there were multiple Swine supporters complaining about the umpiring? Couldn't see it myself. Wonder if Parket gets cited for his elbow to Newman's head in the 3rd that eventually resulted in a goal. No mention I can see. Funny that.
Our composure under pressure was terrible and that's a concern, but I think dry conditions suit us best so next week we'll hopefully be better.
For those on Facebook. Gotta love a designated bias call. Always the best....haha.
https://fb.watch/mXlwiGiPdZ/?mibextid=Nif5oz
For those on Facebook. Gotta love a designated bias call. Always the best....haha.
https://fb.watch/mXlwiGiPdZ/?mibextid=Nif5oz
Gold, Sellers at the end "Bye bye Swannies".
Harry had some crucial goal assists early.
If he was available I’d play him at CHF. He’s a better kick from distance than from close in!
For those on Facebook. Gotta love a designated bias call. Always the best....haha.
https://fb.watch/mXlwiGiPdZ/?mibextid=Nif5oz
What a cracker. Andy didn’t hold back. It was a bit like looking in the mirror 🤯
Pretty crook with a bit of cold last night but still went to the game. After waiting so long not much would have stopped me. Another surreal atmosphere. So one-sided was the crowd that the noise was deafening when we scored and dead quiet when they did. Got home and watched it all again. Went to bed but this cold is getting me up early. Due to collapse soon but while I'm still coherent my thoughts on players games, for what it's worth.
Acres - Would suggest the difference between winning and losing this game. TWO on the line touches and kicks the match winning goal. Pretty decent output and under some duress I think. Also had his mandatory OOF. BOG
Cerra - Really close to BOG. Probably 2nd. Just does so much work and so hard at it.
Cincotta - Solid game.
Cottrell - One of the best. Massive work rate, kicks goals has really improved over the years.
Cripps - Relatively quiet by his standards and I think his ribs aren't quite right but he kicked a bloody goal! A couple of is turnovers were shocking as well. Hopefully each day his body gets a bit better. Need him big time next week.
Cuningham - Not a great game by Davie. His form has been down of late and may be under pressure to retain his spot next week, but he DID kick a goal!
De Koning - A really good game by TDK and probably could have kicked a couple but for some slack umpiring. His effort in the last to instigate our only goal was fantastic.
Docherty - OK without being outstanding. Played on Gulden at times which wasn't ideal, but was thereabouts.
Fogarty - Applies pressure and gets a run on the ball a fair bit. Voss obviously values him.
Hewett - Pretty damn good game by George. He been building well since his return to the team and is showing his old form. Let's hope he stays fit.
Kemp - Another solid backman and apart from one MAJOR stuff-up did well.
Marchbank - Surprised by how well he played. On that form he stays.
Martin - So very important to the team. If you had to rely on someone kicking for goal he'd be first cab off the rank. His last quarter defensively play was enormous (bar the ball rolling through his legs for the swans last goal). Hope he gets off but doubt it.
McGovern - Some good work by Mitch but he also had a major stuff-up that cost us a goal.
McKay - Had the first 2 goal assists of the game and I thought this could be his night but alas was not meant to be. Still think he is in our best 22 but the yips are proving to be extremely problematic.
Motlop - Zero impact, Which was disappointing given the conditions. Know he wasn't on for long but Paddy Dow does heaps more in similar circumstances.
Newman - Couple of crucial plays and when he took that last mark, the euphoria was overwhelming. Apart from one MAJOR stuff-up did well. Common theme here.
Owies - Only highlight for this bloke was his insane decision to try and handball while running into an open goal. Yes Vossy, WTF was he thinking. Only Motlop was less effective than he.
Pittonet - Hmmmmmm, battled hard. That's all I can say.
Saad - GREAT. One of his best games for quite some time and couldn't come at a better time. One of the only backmen who DIDN'T have a major stuff-up
Walsh - Really, really good game by the kid. I will say however at times he did choose the wrong option which concerns me but I'm probably a bit too critical.
Weitering - Probably the coolest of cucumbers in the chaos. When so many were panicking his class stood out.
Overall another great relief, but how many more of these can we all take? Funny, listening to the radio in the car on the way home there were multiple Swine supporters complaining about the umpiring? Couldn't see it myself. Wonder if Parket gets cited for his elbow to Newman's head in the 3rd that eventually resulted in a goal. No mention I can see. Funny that.
Our composure under pressure was terrible and that's a concern, but I think dry conditions suit us best so next week we'll hopefully be better.
Nice summary, Mr Balboa. And wish you a swift recovery from your cold.
Finding a way to win in the 2nd half when the Fluffy Ducks came and came hard at us, was a very good sign of maturity/mental toughness. But... we'd want to clean up on those errors in the 2nd half. Reckon it was only our above the shoulders resolve that got us over the line, along with some very special moments from the blokes that Mr Balboa mentioned.
I was concerned with being top-heavy during the week and it came to pass, not helped by H just simply being out of form. With H being ineligible for the Go Dees game it does make way for JSOS if he's fit and ready to go.
Was a little disappointed with Cunner's game. Has to impose himself more, there is too much skill there to not be on display. Still did some very nice things, but more needed.
50/50 on Martin. I've watched the replay of the incident and it could be reasonably argued that when Martin's arm hit Blakey's shoulder it assisted/caused his fist to reflex into Blakey's face. Careless? Probably. Reckless? Possibly. Intentional? No. Will be a considerable loss if suspended. Kennedy a good replacement? Yep.
Kudos to the Fluffy Ducks. So disciplined and relentless. 90,000 Bluebaggers + 18 players against them and only played one bad quarter, which was enough for us to win. Their finals experience sure did help in the 2nd half. Kudos to us for not letting them get in front at any stage, despite some ugly and mistakes ridden footy (in the 2nd half when under real heat).
Charles will not be held to a modest contribution two weeks in a row.
A valuable experience for our boys.
Thats what I saw as well - Martin hit Blakeys upper arm first and momentum pushed Martin forward hitting Blakey high.
It looks 100% accidental - it was a high with low/medium impact as Blakey continued to play.
50/50 on Martin. I've watched the replay of the incident and it could be reasonably argued that when Martin's arm hit Blakey's shoulder it assisted/caused his fist to reflex into Blakey's face. Careless? Probably. Reckless? Possibly. Intentional? No. Will be a considerable loss if suspended. Kennedy a good replacement? Yep.
There is nothing 50/50 about it in my book, watched it frame by frame, fist to the jaw, left arm doesn't even contact Blakey to tackle, verging on dirty and if a the roles were reversed, you'd. all say the same. We will miss Martin hugely next week, he was tough in the contests, strong overhead and kicked straight. Doesn't panic, smart as all get out and is built for finals. We all knew the talent was there, his body has let him down over the years but touch wood, he is in ripping nick at the moment. It would a miracle of biblical proportions for him to get off. Hopefully only a week and back for the prelim.
Vossy was insistent last night that the win was down to "heart" and that we did make mistakes and would learn from them. That shows to me what a tough team we have become and that we'll be very tough to toss by any team in these finals. Sydney are a very tough and professional outfit who expected to win last night.
Go Blueboys!
Swans are a well coached quality side. Absolutely thrilled with that win. We'll learn so much. Some of my highlights..
- Doc' opening goal
- the contested dominance
- high pressure
- ability to absorb Swans high pressure
- shining performance by those lesser
stars
- non reliance on bigger names
- ability to bounce back or at least hold firm when Swans got a run
- final siren celebrations
- the attitude of every player across 4q
- BT having to be nice to the winners
Such an amazing couple of months. Kudos to Vossy and the entire club for staying the course 👏🏼
Go Blues
x2 except you forgot one point.
The crowd noise was unbelievable last night.
I cannot remember hearing anything like that in a long long time if at all.
It really stood out to me.
GO BLUESSSSSS...................
x2 except you forgot one point.
The crowd noise was unbelievable last night.
I cannot remember hearing anything like that in a long long time if at all.
It was a 'Kerryn McCann 2006 Comm Games' sound. A packed MCG supporting the one person / team. Unbelievable!
I don't share your optimism that Harry would be better next week if he were able to play.
Leaving aside that in the Swan's match he was once again a motivation killer, the fact is that since his return to the side we have gone back to the same old predictable approach of entry into the forward line, namely, coming around the flanks and kicking long to the forward line.
During the time he was out injured our plan of attack was quite different - bringing the ball through the centre corridor as quickly as possible, denying the opposition backmen the chance to settle, and allowing our small forwards freedom of movement.
If he is not available for selection against Melbourne, I hope we return to the plan which has brought us success.
Hmm i get where your coming from and yes Charlie has excelled when Harry is not there, however even though he has been in horrible form this year, he did win a Coleman medal two years ago and had a reasonable year last year. If he kicks 2 goals and is not concussed then he plays next week.
Tall players don't get any shorter as the game goes on, and he is still someone that the opposition has to put one one of their best defenders on to ensure he is kept in check.
Re H, was there number 2 or 30 on him when he was on? Seriously felt like those two Marked every friggen ball that came near them in the last half!
Well done Blues, we did something Essendon have been trying to do for the last 100 years!! Win a final!! We won ugly, but we WON!!
Love this
https://facebook.com/417214352159989
Saad joins elite list. Congratulations to Adam Saad on joining this list of former Essendon players who have won a final since Essendon last won a final.
Adam Saad (Carlton)
Joe Daniher (Brisbane)
Orazio Fantasia (Port Adelaide)
Ted Richards (Sydney)
Michael Hibberd (Melbourne)
Adam McPhee (Fremantle)
Jake Carlisle (St Kilda)
Bachar Houli (Richmond)
Josh Jenkins (Adelaide)
Jake Melksham (Melbourne)
Angus Monfries (Port Adelaide)
Paddy Ryder (St Kilda)
Kepler Bradley (Fremantle)
Conor McKenna (County Tyrone)
Gavin Wanganeen (Port Adelaide)
Damien Hardwick (Port Adelaide)
Winners win because they win, losers lose because they lose. The cultural pressure on Carlton last night was enormous. After being down for so long the fear of winning can be debilitating. For too long Carlton teams have relied on Messiahs to save them rather than being a collective of individuals who look inside themselves to find success. Last night could be a stepping stone for us to move forward in becoming the team I believe we can be.
We missed two goals from 15 meters and gave up three goals from bonehead errors. Our two best players had minimal impact and Sydney is a seriously good structured team. Yet despite of all this we were able to win. Hopefully the pressure is now off and we can become what we should be.
Turning up to play is so important. Collingwood kicked the first two goals and won by seven points and we kicked the first two goals and won by one.
McKay won't be playing and I don't think Martin will. If Silvagni is fit he should probably play to help shut down Lever and Motlop should be in the starting team. I would bring Dow in as the sub.
Harry had some crucial goal assists early.
If he was available I’d play him at CHF. He’s a better kick from distance than from close in!
I reckon it's the blue jumper. Look how much better Levi kicks at goal since he put a Gold Coast jumper on....hahaha.
Winners win because they win, losers lose because they lose. The cultural pressure on Carlton last night was enormous. After being down for so long the fear of winning can be debilitating. For too long Carlton teams have relied on Messiahs to save them rather than being a collective of individuals who look inside themselves to find success. Last night could be a stepping stone for us to move forward in becoming the team I believe we can be.
We missed two goals from 15 meters and gave up three goals from bonehead errors. Our two best players had minimal impact and Sydney is a seriously good structured team. Yet despite of all this we were able to win. Hopefully the pressure is now off and we can become what we should be.
Turning up to play is so important. Collingwood kicked the first two goals and won by seven points and we kicked the first two goals and won by one.
McKay won't be playing and I don't think Martin will. If Silvagni is fit he should probably play to help shut down Lever and Motlop should be in the starting team. I would bring Dow in as the sub.
I would be giving serious consideration to Paddy Dow for the starting 22.
I thought I'd never say it, but I don't believe we can win finals unless Martin plays. Is a crucial player ATM.
I would be giving serious consideration to Paddy Dow for the starting 22.
My concern with Paddy D is mental toughness. Too often goes missing in real heat, and finals pressure is another level up.
Kennedy & JSOS have both shown mongrel determination when the heat is on. Motlop is X factor.
I thought I'd never say it, but I don't believe we can win finals unless Martin plays. Is a crucial player ATM.
I thought the exact same thing this morning watching highlights, he was out most important player last night.
Yes to JSOS if he’s fit, he is built for this type of pressure and will work his guts out for it.
JSOS is finished for the year with a knee isn't he?
Id consider Dow, he's a burst style player who might help us bat a bit deeper against that Dees midfield. He also played in some big high pressure games during the streak.
Fisher ain't hard enough for the next three games, I think he'd be found a little wanting. Its going to be kill or be killed the next three weeks.
JSOS is finished for the year with a knee isn't he?
Not necessarily. The latest update (25th August) had him out for the first final, then no news after that. i suspect it will be a week by week proposition.
My concern with Paddy D is mental toughness. Too often goes missing in real heat, and finals pressure is another level up.
Kennedy & JSOS have both shown mongrel determination when the heat is on. Motlop is X factor.
I think Dow has definitely improved and would be useful competing with the Melb midfield. I think Kennedy would be H's replacement with doubts still hanging over JSOS. Motlop might be a good Sub option.
Awesome night last night. Just me and 92000 of my closest friends....maybe 90k were carlton fans.
Weather behaved itself and although it rained it was mild. Was windy, but not terribly so.
No excuse for Harry missing those goals anyway.
Martin is starting to prove the doubters wrong. If he has any left, then they don't know much about footy. He was huge all over the ground.
Cottrell took some strong marks, was good in front of goals and is made for finals.
Acres...love what this bloke has brought to the club tough as nails, but might miss with his shoulder which was hanging for the last 5 minutes of the game. Thankfully the weekly out on the full happened very late in the game and didn't hurt us too much.
Harry....oh dear....i suggested we keep him out of the side previously and didn't get much support. After last nights debacle, he is probably lucky he got himself concussed as it may have saved himself the embarrassment of being dropped. How do you miss 2 goals basically from the goal square in the same match?! Confidence is shot.
Changes for next week....
Out: Harry (conc), Martin (susp), Acres (shoulder)
IN: Silvagni, Motlop, Hollands
Sub: Kennedy
My concern with Paddy D is mental toughness. Too often goes missing in real heat, and finals pressure is another level up.
Kennedy & JSOS have both shown mongrel determination when the heat is on. Motlop is X factor.
For the little time he was on I think Motlop looked timid last night, he had everything to play for full of energy and fresh as a daisy in the final moments of a heavy slog and did squat. He should have been running all over the Swans defenders, instead he just surrendered with the pill. It didn't matter which way he run as long as he run and made them pay a price on tired legs for guarding him!
I'd rather Dow, as long as we let Dow be Dow and forget shoehorning him into some roll he is not suited for! If we want to shoehorn players, shoehorn Cerra or Hewett who have that utility factor.
I think Dow has definitely improved and would be useful competing with the Melb midfield. I think Kennedy would be H's replacement with doubts still hanging over JSOS. Motlop might be a good Sub option.
Out H, Martin (Acres looked sore in the last few minutes according to my mate sitting behind the goals he kicked the sealer at)
Ins to pick from: Kennedy Fisher Dow Holland Motlop
For the little time he was on I think Motlop looked timid last night, he had everything to play for full of energy and fresh as a daisy in the final moments of a heavy slog and did squat.
I'd rather Dow, as long as we let Dow be Dow and forget shoehorning him into some roll he is not suited for! If we want to shoehorn players, shoehorn Cerra or Hewett who have that utility factor.
Motlop didn't look timid to me. First contest he was in he nearly took himself and his opponent out.
Made a few spoiling/tackling attempts later.
Didn't do enough in his time on the ground.
Actually, he scored a '-6' fantasy points rating
JSOS is finished for the year with a knee isn't he?
Apparently good to go.
Hollands back in for mine. Blake Acres and Cotters were the game breakers with their ability to work up and down all day. Hollands provides another accountable avenue to do that and when its his turn to go, he goes and then goes again. THATS what you want in a finals player. Its not the size of the dog, its the size of the fight in the dog, and I have not seen him shirk any contests either tall or small.
I checked the stats on grand final day back in 2008. Everyone likes to remember the efforts of Stewart Dew and his heroics, but Ill personally remember Cyrils halving of one contest vs two opponents on the wing leading to a turnover and momentum swing back to hawthorn, as the catalyst behind the hawks coming back into that game and eventual win.
Out of all of our options not currently in the ones, its Kennedy or Hollands. For me, Hollands is the better option, but thats not to say that Kennedy would be any worse.
x2 except you forgot one point.
The crowd noise was unbelievable last night.
I cannot remember hearing anything like that in a long long time if at all.
It really stood out to me.
GO BLUESSSSSS...................
Good point. I wasn't at the game, watching from interstate. I have no doubt our passionate Bluebaggers roared and help push our boys to the end. My own screaming, yelling, and occasional groans was noise enough from where I was sitting.
I'm so happy for all our fans and hope they all celebrate a whole of club achievement 👏🏼
The cheersquad are a dedicated bunch, and I admire them for all their work. Occasionally, I think they could fire up a little with their collection of chants. The Carl-Ton clap clap clap is their go to, and the only one you hear frequently. Last night, they added Carl-ton, Carl-ton in the "come on you blues" style (yes I know that this is the "Col-ling-WOOOD" chant too, but we used to hear it differently at Optus Oval.
That's all great, but I think we could add the "viking clap", and when the crowd claps in unison they yell BLUES.
Beyond that, i admire them for turning out each and every week, and hope they can take on board some constructive criticism.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JdpRWG3IJ0
I think this would be great for our footy club particularly before the game!
For those on Facebook. Gotta love a designated bias call. Always the best....haha.
https://fb.watch/mXlwiGiPdZ/?mibextid=Nif5oz
Ah magnificent. Gave me goose bumps. I listen to ABC, but that was great to hear. Three big Carlton personalities showing their true feelings.
Yes!!!!!! GO BLUES................. :D :D :D
rapt with the win but 2 things that bother me last night and all year is.1 long bomb kick in from fullback to the same side to the wing only for opposition to rebound straight back. 2 long bomb into f 50 once again allows the opposition to set up and take the ball away with ease .Voss and co needs to change this style
The cheersquad are a dedicated bunch, and I admire them for all their work. Occasionally, I think they could fire up a little with their collection of chants. The Carl-Ton clap clap clap is their go to, and the only one you hear frequently. Last night, they added Carl-ton, Carl-ton in the "come on you blues" style (yes I know that this is the "Col-ling-WOOOD" chant too, but we used to hear it differently at Optus Oval.
That's all great, but I think we could add the "viking clap", and when the crowd claps in unison they yell BLUES.
Beyond that, i admire them for turning out each and every week, and hope they can take on board some constructive criticism.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JdpRWG3IJ0
I think this would be great for our footy club particularly before the game!
Ah the Viking 'skol' clap.
I remember it a bit differently.
They do this before every home game....and it gets a going over during at stages too.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbgH_2-8xKI
BTW, as loud as it was last night, Vikings games are so much louder.
Having just watched the replay, this stands out:
H was very good and very important for us, the misses were ridiculous BUT he did a lot right!
We got zero 50/50’s from the umps and they got every single one. They play close to the rules but never get pinged for it.
The way we played was much better watching on tv than live! I thought we more Capitulated and got too nervous but on tv you can see clearly how Syd just would not stop and got harder at it as time went on. We were outstanding to withhold them 👏🏽
Bloody unreal! The atmosphere at the end was crazy good and the walk out of the stadium had many many groups of Baggers singing the song together 🙌
Bring on Melbourne 💪🏼
Nice to hang on there. Gutsy stuff. Would have been nice if we went on with it, but as said, a win of grit and guts.
Did anyone get vibes of the commentary being pro-Sydney? I did. Btw, can Brian Taylor please STFU about calling holding the ball as a player is tackled, attempting to kick the ball without prior opportunity? It's not the first time he's called for that to be penalised. It's against the spirit of the game and players might as well not get the ball if those things happen. Not a spectacle I want to watch.
Having just watched the replay, this stands out:
H was very good and very important for us, the misses were ridiculous BUT he did a lot right!
We got zero 50/50’s from the umps and they got every single one. They play close to the rules but never get pinged for it.
The way we played was much better watching on tv than live! I thought we more Capitulated and got too nervous but on tv you can see clearly how Syd just would not stop and got harder at it as time went on. We were outstanding to withhold them 👏🏽
Bloody unreal! The atmosphere at the end was crazy good and the walk out of the stadium had many many groups of Baggers singing the song together 🙌
Bring on Melbourne 💪🏼
We just need to clean up the mistakes, like a few kick-ins, bit of panic in one passage deep in defence, and the ball going through Martin's legs with 25 sec to go which all resulted in goals. They were 4 or 5 goals they got for nothing which made a comfortable win close. Clean that up and we will be good.
Nice to hang on there. Gutsy stuff. Would have been nice if we went on with it, but as said, a win of grit and guts.
Did anyone get vibes of the commentary being pro-Sydney? I did. Btw, can Brian Taylor please STFU about calling holding the ball as a player is tackled, attempting to kick the ball without prior opportunity? It's not the first time he's called for that to be penalised. It's against the spirit of the game and players might as well not get the ball if those things happen. Not a spectacle I want to watch.
BT is not so much pro-Sydney as Anti-Carlton
It's probably one of the reasons why the boys don't like to talk to 'creeping Brian'.
BT is not so much pro -as Anti-Carlton
It's probably one of the reasons why the boys don't like to talk to 'creeping Brian'.
There are a lot of very good footy commentators going around at present, BT is not one of them. Apart from being generally obnoxious, he constantly gets things wrong - players names, umpiring interpretations... not to mention 'bias/side taking.' I suspect that if he was any more 'full of himself' he'd vanish up his own dot.
BT is not so much pro-Sydney as Anti-Carlton
It's probably one of the reasons why the boys don't like to talk to 'creeping Brian'.
As I recall, before the first bounce BS opening comments set his intentions. Along the lines "imagine if Sydney come out and get the first couple of goals" wtf.... who wants to know the contents of his imagination? Not me. He's an incompetent commentator who is quite frankly an embarrassment to the code. He doesn't do his research, subsequently talking BS. As for footy knowledge, he has little of relevance to add. And yes. He's a creep.
Awesome night last night. Just me and 92000 of my closest friends....maybe 90k were carlton fans.
Weather behaved itself and although it rained it was mild. Was windy, but not terribly so.
No excuse for Harry missing those goals anyway.
Martin is starting to prove the doubters wrong. If he has any left, then they don't know much about footy. He was huge all over the ground.
Cottrell took some strong marks, was good in front of goals and is made for finals.
Acres...love what this bloke has brought to the club tough as nails, but might miss with his shoulder which was hanging for the last 5 minutes of the game. Thankfully the weekly out on the full happened very late in the game and didn't hurt us too much.
Harry....oh dear....i suggested we keep him out of the side previously and didn't get much support. After last nights debacle, he is probably lucky he got himself concussed as it may have saved himself the embarrassment of being dropped. How do you miss 2 goals basically from the goal square in the same match?! Confidence is shot.
Changes for next week....
Out: Harry (conc), Martin (susp), Acres (shoulder)
IN: Silvagni, Motlop, Hollands
Sub: Kennedy
Agree with most of that.
I have been a long term doubter of Martin - and he has played exceptionally the last few weeks. Now needs to do it consistently.
Still think we are better with harry than without. We lost a lot of forward connection when he went off last night.
Still, he needs to see a sports psychologist, as it is 100% between the ears for him.
My concern with Paddy D is mental toughness. Too often goes missing in real heat, and finals pressure is another level up.
Kennedy & JSOS have both shown mongrel determination when the heat is on. Motlop is X factor.
With Harry out, I would think that one or both Kennedy & JSOS (if fit) would be under consideration as competitive marking forwards
Hollands back in for mine.
Definitely needed to provide another hard running option to rotate through the wing. I thought he was unlucky to miss the Swans game.
long bomb into f 50 once again allows the opposition to set up and take the ball away with ease.
Voss and co needs to change this style.
Bloody oath
Btw, can Brian Taylor please STFU about calling holding the ball as a player is tackled, attempting to kick the ball without prior opportunity? It's not the first time he's called for that to be penalised.
Btw, can Brian Taylor please STFU COMPLETELY.
He and his Friday night mates (JB and Richo) are painful to have to listen to AND they are less than knowledgeable about the rules and interpretations. I have to turn the volume way down because Hodge is about the only one I can stand.
I was suspect but not fully aware of our woeful kick ins from the goal square - we gave up 4 goals just by turn over from kick ins only... thanks to First Crack on Fox Footy for confirming that.
Can dumb players please stop calling for the ball in dangerous areas.
rapt with the win but 2 things that bother me last night and all year is.1 long bomb kick in from fullback to the same side to the wing only for opposition to rebound straight back. 2 long bomb into f 50 once again allows the opposition to set up and take the ball away with ease .Voss and co needs to change this style
Someone made exactly the same point to Boomer Harvey on the wireless this morning. Boomer's response was along the lines, "We bombed the ball into Wayne Carey. Of course you'd bomb it into Charlie and Harry McKay. They are two of the best contested marks in the game."
Seven of our goals came from long bombs inside 50.
Harry’s two misses also came from long bombs and they would be normally be lay down misere goals.
We won't beat Melbourne without Martin and McKay. It's hard enough with them on the park.
We won't beat Melbourne without Martin and McKay. It's hard enough with them on the park.
We beat them with Harry missing but we had Martin. I'd guess Acres will be doubtful given how he was carrying his arm late in Fridays game.
We won't beat Melbourne without Martin and McKay. It's hard enough with them on the park.
Underestimate Carlton and the next man up philosophy at you peril, Paul.
We won't beat Melbourne without Martin and McKay. It's hard enough with them on the park.
But the song says..."never let you down" :o
We won't beat Melbourne without Martin and McKay. It's hard enough with them on the park.
Couldn't possibly beat them without Martin and McKay.
....although we did beat them without Walsh, Cerra and McKay a month ago.
Bizarre comment.
Won't Brayshaw be out for Melb for starters?
We did a lot right - we got to five goal leads twice. It seems as if we got nervous/careful in the last but were also tiring.
Had Harry kicked his second attempt, ball goes back to the middle, we are brimming with confidence - but Sydney are a team that never stops, so who knows - not sure it would have been a whole lot different or not, no one does, it all becomes speculation.
There is a really strong team vibe about this group now, which is great.
Bring on Melbourne.
Won't Brayshaw be out for Melb for starters?
Yes definitely. But at this writing, we will be without Martin and McKay, Acres' left shoulder looked very iffy at the end, Silvagni is no certainty to return. There's talk that Grundy will be brought back (possibly at McDonald's expense). Their midfield can definitely match it with ours. They were IMO the better team for 3q against the Pies. Their forward line is a real issue. The Round So Far* showed a graphic of the last 3 finals the Demons have played : in total in those games, they are +41 I50's, +58 contested possessions, +13 clearances, +17 shots on goal, and -42 on the scoreboard. They will be a very tough opponent, and we wil be hoping their goal kicking woes continue, because everything else appears to be in very good order.
*Misnamed as Access All Areas originally.
Yes definitely. But at this writing, we will be without Martin and McKay, Acres' left shoulder looked very iffy at the end, Silvagni is no certainty to return.
....and Cripps is carrying a mattress around with him.
....and Cripps is carrying a mattress around with him.
Pittonet looks like a mummy with the strapping on his leg.
Its that time of year, everyone has an injury.
need to introduce quick ball movement much like ferals WE cant allow melb defenders to set up .
Dees on the rebound wanting to win it for the fallen hero Brayshaw will be tough work....Fritsch wont be missing easy goals this week and I cant see Petracca and Oliver playing one decent half of football only either.
Then you have the mystery of Grundy who is meant to be outbound to the Swans playing or not and if he does will he be wanting to show his future club what they are spending their money on.
Add Harry and Martin missing plus Acres banged up and Jack Silvagni possibly returning wanting to show he is worth more than a year or two only contract wise and its going to be a win for the ages if we can get up with a lot of variables and things working against us.
Pittonet looks like a mummy with the strapping on his leg.
Its that time of year, everyone has an injury.
It may boil down to which side carries those the best.
I'd match our team against any other at their best...but is the way we've had to fight to get to this stage and the very physical pressure game we've played going to end up taking it's toll?
If we do bow out it won't be from lack of ability as much as just running out of steam.
Yes definitely. But at this writing, we will be without Martin and McKay, Acres' left shoulder looked very iffy at the end, Silvagni is no certainty to return. There's talk that Grundy will be brought back (possibly at McDonald's expense). Their midfield can definitely match it with ours. They were IMO the better team for 3q against the Pies. Their forward line is a real issue. Access All Areas showed a graphic of the last 3 finals the Demons have played : in total in those games, they are +41 I50's, +58 contested possessions, +13 clearances, +17 shots on goal, and -42 on the scoreboard. They will be a very tough opponent, and we wil be hoping their goal kicking woes continue, because everything else appears to be in very good order.
I think that Vossy would be pleased at the prospect of Melbourne naming Grundy. He was marginally better than a witch's hat last time we beat them.
Ben Brown is far more likely to get a recall and he's not much of a threat.
Dees on the rebound wanting to win it for the fallen hero Brayshaw will be tough work....Fritsch wont be missing easy goals this week and I cant see Petracca and Oliver playing one decent half of football only either.
Then you have the mystery of Grundy who is meant to be outbound to the Swans playing or not and if he does will he be wanting to show his future club what they are spending their money on.
Add Harry and Martin missing plus Acres banged up and Jack Silvagni possibly returning wanting to show he is worth more than a year or two only contract wise and its going to be a win for the ages if we can get up with a lot of variables and things working against us.
Fritsch had the hallmarks of a bloke playing through pain killers. Kicked it that badly I reckon he couldn't feel his foot. He's normally deadly accurate.
I'd normally be down on our chances but their forwards are all out of form and /or injured.
Petracca will be sore. Played ok after he had his leg twisted but the dees look to have had the wheels fall off through the year.
exactly wat i said 2 days a go why do our Full back kick ins go to same side (happening all year) yet other sides manage find loose player on his own //short pass run and receive.Long bomb is u16 stuff and thanks kingy supporting me
Coaches' votes :
9 Blake Acres (CARL)
8 Sam Walsh (CARL)
5 Tom McCartin (SYD)
4 Matthew Cottrell (CARL)
2 Errol Gulden (SYD)
1 Adam Cerra (CARL)
1 Adam Saad (CARL)
Coaches' votes :
9 Blake Acres (CARL)
8 Sam Walsh (CARL)
5 Tom McCartin (SYD)
4 Matthew Cottrell (CARL)
2 Errol Gulden (SYD)
1 Adam Cerra (CARL)
1 Adam Saad (CARL)
Interesting, no Martin. He was my most influential player.
Interesting, no Martin. He was my most influential player.
I was surprised by that as well.
This is how I get the breakdown of the votes.
5 Acres
5 Walsh
4 Acres
4 Cottrell
3 Walsh
3 McCartin
2 McCartin
2 Gulden
1 Cera
1 Saad
Interesting, no Martin. He was my most influential player.
Thought Gulden played a blinder for the Swans as well and was in the best three on the ground....agree on Martin being influential and deserving of being in the votes and I would have had Cerra with more votes too.
Interesting, no Martin. He was my most influential player.
I think it's a reality that the gap between what we see and what the experts see can at times be significant.
We had a lot of good players, Sydney brought their A game and we beat them. Fogarty had a game high 8 tackles.
We had a lot of good players, Sydney brought their A game and we beat them. Fogarty had a game high 8 tackles.
Precisely why I gave Fogarty a vote in the Jim Park.
Fogarty for sure earns a new contract without question.
Saad and Fogarty in one trade playing in a winning final seems our recruitment team is on the ball.
This team has been building and now well and truly built to win big games.
Go Blues
How Jacob Weitering is leading Carlton's staunch defence
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-09-14/how-jacob-weitering-is-leading-carlton-s-staunch-defence/102849100