Princes Park => Robert Heatley Stand => Topic started by: crashlander on February 20, 2026, 04:22:10 pm
Title: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: crashlander on February 20, 2026, 04:22:10 pm
Approaching all too quickly, and it is on a Thursday, which is a real irritation. Charlie appears for and firing for Sydney: Weitering uncertain for us.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Adelaideblue on February 26, 2026, 09:03:50 am
Judging by the club's report of Carlton v Geelong VFL practice match, Flynn Young could be a consideration for the Sydney Swans game. https://www.carltonfc.com.au/news/1960947/vfl-practice-match-report-four-goal-flynn-late-scoreboard-drama-sees-blues-prevail
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Lods on February 26, 2026, 09:12:59 am
If reckon if you can pick around 75% of the Round 0 starting line up at this stage you're going to be doing pretty well :D
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: DJC on February 26, 2026, 12:19:14 pm
Weiters reckons he's going to be good to play and is looking forward to matching up against his mate Charlie. I saw an interview with Charlie a while back where he spoke about playing against Weiters.
If we can fit Derksen in the 23 with Weiters back, I'd start him on Charlie with Dean primed to leap over Charlie at every opportunity.
Obviously Weiters knows Charlie's game as well as he knows his own but his value is in intercepting and setting up transition from defence. Derksen is more of an old-fashioned close-checking defender and I think he'd do OK on Charlie ... with some help.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on February 26, 2026, 12:36:34 pm
Id rather Charlie kick a bag, and we win by 30 points, than worry about stopping charlie and lose the game.
Kill his supply, let Charlie have a day out. All that matters is the 4 points, not how we stop him. Stop the rest, he wont kick 12 by himself.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Baggers on February 26, 2026, 06:28:31 pm
Won't have Nick Newman for a couple of weeks. Reported for striking.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: madbluboy on February 26, 2026, 06:41:06 pm
Sydney by 45 points.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: kruddler on February 26, 2026, 06:43:28 pm
Weiters reckons he's going to be good to play and is looking forward to matching up against his mate Charlie. I saw an interview with Charlie a while back where he spoke about playing against Weiters.
If we can fit Derksen in the 23 with Weiters back, I'd start him on Charlie with Dean primed to leap over Charlie at every opportunity.
Obviously Weiters knows Charlie's game as well as he knows his own but his value is in intercepting and setting up transition from defence. Derksen is more of an old-fashioned close-checking defender and I think he'd do OK on Charlie ... with some help.
They interviewed weiters before the game and asked him how many broken ribs he ended up having. His response, i'm not going to say. Don't want to give Sydney too much amunition......or words to that effect.
This shows 2 things. 1. He thinks he will be playing against sydney 2. What he got and what was reported, are different things. If it was just 1, he would've said just one. The club indicated it was 1, he had nothing to gain by not admitting to that. His refusal to answer the question is a worry.
Either way.....i'd prefer we DONT play him against Sydney.....or against anyone really...until he is 100% right. We have very little to gain by risking him. But (re)cracking a rib means we have a lot to lose. So why risk it?
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on February 26, 2026, 06:56:18 pm
Weiters reckons he's going to be good to play and is looking forward to matching up against his mate Charlie. I saw an interview with Charlie a while back where he spoke about playing against Weiters.
If we can fit Derksen in the 23 with Weiters back, I'd start him on Charlie with Dean primed to leap over Charlie at every opportunity.
Obviously Weiters knows Charlie's game as well as he knows his own but his value is in intercepting and setting up transition from defence. Derksen is more of an old-fashioned close-checking defender and I think he'd do OK on Charlie ... with some help.
They interviewed weiters before the game and asked him how many broken ribs he ended up having. His response, i'm not going to say. Don't want to give Sydney too much amunition......or words to that effect.
This shows 2 things. 1. He thinks he will be playing against sydney 2. What he got and what was reported, are different things. If it was just 1, he would've said just one. The club indicated it was 1, he had nothing to gain by not admitting to that. His refusal to answer the question is a worry.
Either way.....i'd prefer we DONT play him against Sydney.....or against anyone really...until he is 100% right. We have very little to gain by risking him. But (re)cracking a rib means we have a lot to lose. So why risk it?
I reckon we wont see him before round 2.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: kruddler on February 26, 2026, 07:00:37 pm
They interviewed weiters before the game and asked him how many broken ribs he ended up having. His response, i'm not going to say. Don't want to give Sydney too much amunition......or words to that effect.
This shows 2 things. 1. He thinks he will be playing against sydney 2. What he got and what was reported, are different things. If it was just 1, he would've said just one. The club indicated it was 1, he had nothing to gain by not admitting to that. His refusal to answer the question is a worry.
Either way.....i'd prefer we DONT play him against Sydney.....or against anyone really...until he is 100% right. We have very little to gain by risking him. But (re)cracking a rib means we have a lot to lose. So why risk it?
I reckon we wont see him before round 2.
I hope we don't. No chance he's 100% before then.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: rocky on February 26, 2026, 07:11:50 pm
Either way.....i'd prefer we DONT play him against Sydney.....or against anyone really...until he is 100% right. We have very little to gain by risking him. But (re)cracking a rib means we have a lot to lose. So why risk it?
We agree for a change. ;) :D It reduces our chances in the short term but benefits us long term in not rushing him back. From what he said it's obviously more than one crack.
I think they'll name him in the side...whether he plays or not we'll have to wait and see. Hopefully a late withdrawal.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Lods on February 26, 2026, 07:48:40 pm
Bit of a rainy day for the Swans Giants game today. Gulden went off with a rolled ankle but is expected to be OK for next week. Charlie only had 6 disposals for 2 goals but didn't play a full game (69%) Swans won 97 to 59
Bit of a rainy day for the Swans Giants game today. Gulden went off with a rolled ankle but is expected to be OK for next week. Charlie only had 6 disposals for 2 goals but didn't play a full game (69%) Swans won 97 to 59
If reckon if you can pick around 75% of the Round 0 starting line up at this stage you're going to be doing pretty well :D
Challange accepted
FB Saad Weitering Derksen HB Florent Dean Young C Ollie Cripps Elijah HF Hayward Kemp Moir FF Byrne McKay Ainsworth Foll Pittonet Hewett Walsh Int Smith Chesser Lord Evans (minus the shades) Reidy
Reasoning as follows: I dont trust Pittonet to go in with one ruckman, if its one its Reidy HOK appears miles off Happy to move on from Gov & Acres Zaccy W unlucky but the other boys (Byrne and Ainsworth) have shown plenty up fwd compared to ZW (small sample size granted) Derksen hasn't put a foot wrong and is hungry, ditto Reidy. Fogarty seemed to have a strapped hammy after the game. I have this inkling young Dean has been pestering Vossy for weeks with "Gimme Charlie, I'll get it done". The boy does not lack confidence to go with his competitiveness.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: shawny on February 26, 2026, 08:20:03 pm
All the charlie hysteria is making me ill.
he kicked one long goal and another from the goal square. had 6 touches for the whole game. woo fking hoo.
i want to win this game so bad now
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: kruddler on February 26, 2026, 08:25:09 pm
People know ive been stressing for kpp tk be added to the list, but g2c has decided to include all of them in the one team. :o
I think our side will be very similar to the one from last night.
In....weitering (id prefer not) Out....young, chesser, boyd, fogarty,
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: townsendcalling on February 26, 2026, 08:59:19 pm
Heavy tracks take a while to recover in the legs no matter what. If they reduced player time for some because of the conditions, then they will probably be underdone (eg Papley??)
Charlie? 6 touches, 2 goals (one joe the goose that I could have kicked) minimal involvement once the ball is not in a marking contest and the obligatory NO TACKLES!! There are a lot of areas to pick up on in a week!!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: townsendcalling on February 26, 2026, 09:04:36 pm
Gulden and Heeney concern me more than the traitor, Swans are half the side when Gulden is absent or under control.
Gulden rolled his ankle in the game against GWS. Odds are he will play, but he wont be at the peak of his powers. Heeney and Warner are the other two we need to clamp down on, along with the lizard. They have fewer weapons than they used to but are still dangerous.
Of their forwards, we know how this goes. Papley is the one that will do the most damage.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Blue Moon on February 28, 2026, 04:22:48 pm
My effort, Florent Weitering Dean Said Derksen Williams Chesser Hewitt O.Hollands E.Hollands Moir Ainsworth Kemp McKay Hayward Pittonett Walsh Cripps Smith Lord McGovern Acres Reidy Carlton by 22
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: tonyo on March 02, 2026, 09:42:53 am
AFL have really set us up for a fall in this first game.
Sydney have lots of tall forward options which may stretch us, I wouldn't play Weiters on Charlie, we need him to be the general back there and free to roam as third man up. Lewis Young may get the job instead.
TBH, I would be happy with not getting blown out of the water - we have some winnable games after this one, and a chance for the new combinations to settle down a bit. Just don't need a flogging first up to deflate the balloon too much.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 02, 2026, 10:35:34 am
Yep Despite being optimistic for the season ahead I'd be very surprised if we were to win this game.
The Swans in Sydney are always a tough assignment. We really haven't seen our opening round team in it's entirety through the pre-season so it may take a few weeks to settle down and gel once we get closer to regular players in positions.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 02, 2026, 10:40:55 am
Yep Despite being optimistic for the season ahead I'd be very surprised if we were to win this game.
The Swans in Sydney are always a tough assignment. We really haven't seen our opening round team in it's entirety through the pre-season so it may take a few weeks to settle down and gel once we get closer to regular players in positions.
I'm the opposite.
We are a big unknown right now. We don't know how we will line up and how we will play.....how the hell do the opposition scout that?
We have the ability to come out of the blocks early and get the jump on them before they get a chance to react. On the other hand, we have 2 ex-sydney players who would be well aware of their gameplan. The only difference with them is who they kick to in the 50 now.
Later in the year when we've shown our hand it will be harder to get wins IMO. Early on, anything is possible.
Similarly, we could get done by 100 points if we haven't got our $h!t together.....but more chance of a win than that happened IMO.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 02, 2026, 10:52:08 am
Cant lose to a midpack team like the Swans and need to bank wins early and get the pressure off Voss. I dont see much fallout from the top 8 from last season apart from Collingwood who I think will struggle and we cant be losing to teams around us or below imho.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 02, 2026, 11:05:36 am
Cant lose to a midpack team like the Swans and need to bank wins early and get the pressure off Voss. I dont see much fallout from the top 8 from last season apart from Collingwood who I think will struggle and we cant be losing to teams around us or below imho.
Do you think they are around us EB?
Many of the experts have them in the top 4 and us in the bottom 6. They had an off year last year I expect them to jump right back up this year - their ruck, midfield and forward groups are as good as any if all fit. And if you add a fit Charlie who knows how far they can go.
Their back 6 is their query so hopefully ball spends more time in that section of the ground on Thursday night for us to have a chance
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 02, 2026, 11:30:43 am
Cant lose to a midpack team like the Swans and need to bank wins early and get the pressure off Voss. I dont see much fallout from the top 8 from last season apart from Collingwood who I think will struggle and we cant be losing to teams around us or below imho.
Do you think they are around us EB?
Many of the experts have them in the top 4 and us in the bottom 6. They had an off year last year I expect them to jump right back up this year - their ruck, midfield and forward groups are as good as any if all fit. And if you add a fit Charlie who knows how far they can go.
Their back 6 is their query so hopefully ball spends more time in that section of the ground on Thursday night for us to have a chance
Shawny, apart from Charlie their list is the same as last season minus Haywood/Florent and they are relying on organic growth plus their Coach improving his output. I'm less optimistic about their chances than the scribes, one injury to any of Heeney, Gulden or Warner and they are back struggling as Cox doesn't have the innovation or levers to pull that the top coaches have imho.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: DJC on March 02, 2026, 11:37:42 am
We are a big unknown right now. We don't know how we will line up and how we will play.....how the hell do the opposition scout that?
We have the ability to come out of the blocks early and get the jump on them before they get a chance to react. On the other hand, we have 2 ex-sydney players who would be well aware of their gameplan. The only difference with them is who they kick to in the 50 now.
Later in the year when we've shown our hand it will be harder to get wins IMO. Early on, anything is possible.
Similarly, we could get done by 100 points if we haven't got our $h!t together.....but more chance of a win than that happened IMO.
I'm thinking along the same lines. We could have seven or eight debutants on Thursday and that's going to be a headache for Sydney's opposition analysts. We've also gone from a conventional two KPF forward line to a more dynamic, multi-faceted offence and, potentially, different and more efficient ball movement.
Sydney were rubbish last season, with no real excuses apart from a coach on his Ls. They won more games than us but with almost the same percentage despite our glaring inability to score.
Cant lose to a midpack team like the Swans and need to bank wins early and get the pressure off Voss. I dont see much fallout from the top 8 from last season apart from Collingwood who I think will struggle and we cant be losing to teams around us or below imho.
Yes, if we're going to have any joy at all this season, we can't afford to drop games against mediocre teams, even if they have brought in a messiah ... with dodgy knees, questionable attitude and poor second efforts.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 02, 2026, 11:56:09 am
Many of the experts have them in the top 4 and us in the bottom 6. They had an off year last year I expect them to jump right back up this year - their ruck, midfield and forward groups are as good as any if all fit. And if you add a fit Charlie who knows how far they can go.
Their back 6 is their query so hopefully ball spends more time in that section of the ground on Thursday night for us to have a chance
Shawny, apart from Charlie their list is the same as last season minus Haywood/Florent and they are relying on organic growth plus their Coach improving his output. I'm less optimistic about their chances than the scribes, one injury to any of Heeney, Gulden or Warner and they are back struggling as Cox doesn't have the innovation or levers to pull that the top coaches have imho.
Agree they dont have depth but if they are fit their list is very strong and has less holes than ours all things being equal.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Milhanna13 on March 02, 2026, 12:18:23 pm
Shawny, apart from Charlie their list is the same as last season minus Haywood/Florent and they are relying on organic growth plus their Coach improving his output. I'm less optimistic about their chances than the scribes, one injury to any of Heeney, Gulden or Warner and they are back struggling as Cox doesn't have the innovation or levers to pull that the top coaches have imho.
Agree they dont have depth but if they are fit their list is very strong and has less holes than ours all things being equal.
They are usually competitive and have a star laden midfield with a couple of players we don't have matchups for but I think with careful planning we can contain those players and a good start is imperative.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 02, 2026, 01:27:08 pm
I hope your right mate but after watching us get humbled by a reserve team outfit last year in R1 I'm dont have a heap of confidence beating Sydney in Sydney.
In melb it may have been an even money bet but up there is never easy
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 02, 2026, 01:46:03 pm
I hope your right mate but after watching us get humbled by a reserve team outfit last year in R1 I'm dont have a heap of confidence beating Sydney in Sydney.
In melb it may have been an even money bet but up there is never easy
I'm more optimistic the players will lift for the coach given this season is make or break in many ways and I think the Swans are also at the crossroads with their new coach and have sold the farm for Charlie for an instant fix when I think the problems are elsewhere.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Sexybronco on March 02, 2026, 08:00:14 pm
I hope your right mate but after watching us get humbled by a reserve team outfit last year in R1 I'm dont have a heap of confidence beating Sydney in Sydney.
In melb it may have been an even money bet but up there is never easy
I'm more optimistic the players will lift for the coach given this season is make or break in many ways and I think the Swans are also at the crossroads with their new coach and have sold the farm for Charlie for an instant fix when I think the problems are elsewhere.
you may be right EB, but we’ll definitely be on the receiving end of the sugar hit that Curnow has brought the Swans. If we find a way to win it will be an impressive achievement.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Baggers on March 03, 2026, 08:16:45 am
Couldn't give a fig about the CC effect. What we'll see is how our group responds to the strong pressure the Fluffy Ducks will bring, especially on their dung heap. Happy hunting ground for them, not so much for us. Great test. We'll see how well the gelling of the new mix is coming along.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: madbluboy on March 03, 2026, 08:26:19 am
Who is going to win?
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 03, 2026, 09:54:27 am
Love us to give it a kick start...but I think it will be the Swans by 3-4 goals.
I'm looking to this year as an improvement on last year, and while that result may seem contradictory it actually aligns with their 2025 ladder positions. They only finished one spot above us, but had three more wins. Add to that its on their home ground. If we win this one it will be a great start.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: DJC on March 03, 2026, 10:09:58 am
Both Weiters and Charlie have talked about how much time they have spent competing against each other over the last ten years. If anyone knows how to get the better of Charlie, it's Weiters and I don't buy the argument that Charlie is too fast for him. Charlie is expecting Weiters to play on him and he probably will, at times. I'm just not convinced that shutting Charlie down is make the best use of Weiters in terms of his intercept marking and setting up our transition from defence.
The only defender I wouldn't like to see spend a lot of time on Charlie is Lewis Young. I think that his reaction time could give Charlie a metre or two, and that's all he needs. Help defence from our other talls, and from wingers and small forwards should make it more difficult for Charlie to get that break. Of course, cutting off the supply is the best way to stop Sydney's forwards and I think we've got the players to do that.
I'm quietly confident that we'll prevail.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 03, 2026, 10:19:13 am
Both Weiters and Charlie have talked about how much time they have spent competing against each other over the last ten years. If anyone knows how to get the better of Charlie, it's Weiters and I don't buy the argument that Charlie is too fast for him. Charlie is expecting Weiters to play on him and he probably will, at times. I'm just not convinced that shutting Charlie down is make the best use of Weiters in terms of his intercept marking and setting up our transition from defence.
The only defender I wouldn't like to see spend a lot of time on Charlie is Lewis Young. I think that his reaction time could give Charlie a metre or two, and that's all he needs. Help defence from our other talls, and from wingers and small forwards should make it more difficult for Charlie to get that break. Of course, cutting off the supply is the best way to stop Sydney's forwards and I think we've got the players to do that.
I'm quietly confident that we'll prevail.
Dean will come across and help Weiters when needed.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 03, 2026, 10:33:47 am
Not that it was in doubt, but we have confirmation via socials that Harry Dean and Jagga Smith will make their debut this thursday evening.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 03, 2026, 10:37:04 am
Wade may have to wait a little longer for his debut.
...Until they make the late change before the game and he replaces Weitering in the selected side. ;) Even if he isn't playing I think they'll name Weitering.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 03, 2026, 01:25:26 pm
Jagga and Dean official
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: LP on March 03, 2026, 03:19:31 pm
Changes to the outside of stoppages that make us seem so much faster, let Walsh, Cripps, Hewett work inside where they are best, and let the blokes with elite leg speed and acceleration do the run, gun and chase part. No point exhausting Cripps, Walsh and Hewett by having them chase blokes they have zero chance of catching.
I expect us to get some free kicks off the footy if the umpires are switched on, because the Swans will be desperate to stop our fresh leg speed linking up with the inside feed. So expect plenty of scrags, blocks and holds on the outside coming from the Swans midfield and flanks.
I watched the Origin and Cripps was looking pretty good despite being surrounded by extreme opposition talent, the Swans do not bat that deep.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 03, 2026, 03:49:49 pm
Love us to give it a kick start...but I think it will be the Swans by 3-4 goals.
I'm looking to this year as an improvement on last year, and while that result may seem contradictory it actually aligns with their 2025 ladder positions. They only finished one spot above us, but had three more wins. Add to that its on their home ground. If we win this one it will be a great start.
Not sure Voss or the Fans will tolerate a 3-4 goal loss to a midpack team even on their home ground. Thats going to start the timber being ordered for the gallows...I think the time has passed for accepting honorable losses.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 03, 2026, 04:59:38 pm
I have high hopes of improvement for this season Jump a place and we play finals ;) But I expect it to be a gradual build, as players get to understand and work with one another under the 'real' pressure of an AFL game.
We really don't know a lot about our side, and how they'll gel. Practice games are only as good an indicator as the effort that's actually put in by both sides This is the test. I reckon 3-4 goals will be acceptable, as long as the effort is there. Swans were a superior side to us in 2025. They had a bad start to last year and suffered some significant injuries, but finished the season with 8 wins out of the last 11 games They are on their home ground. Talking them down and raising expectations is actually the kind of thing that brings pressure on a coach if we fail to beat this "mediocre" side.
A win is not out of the question and much will depend on how the side comes together with a number of new players. 3-4 goals (with effort) will be a reasonable first up result. It will be the manner of the result that will lead to pressure on players and coach. What we don't want, and can't afford is a blowout, or a lapse where they pile on the goals after we make a good start.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 03, 2026, 05:12:22 pm
I have high hopes of improvement for this season Jump a place and we play finals ;) But I expect it to be a gradual build, as players get to understand and work with one another under the 'real' pressure of an AFL game.
We really don't know a lot about our side, and how they'll gel. Practice games are only as good an indicator as the effort that's actually put in by both sides This is the test. I reckon 3-4 goals will be acceptable, as long as the effort is there. Swans were a superior side to us in 2025. They had a bad start to last year and suffered some significant injuries, but finished the season with 8 wins out of the last 11 games They are on their home ground. Talking them down and raising expectations is actually the kind of thing that brings pressure on a coach if we fail to beat this "mediocre" side.
A win is not out of the question and much will depend on how the side comes together with a number of new players. 3-4 goals (with effort) will be a reasonable first up result. It will be the manner of the result that will lead to pressure on players and coach. What we don't want, and can't afford is a blowout, or a lapse where they pile on the goals after we make a good start.
I'm struggling to see some of the logic in peoples opinions on this match.
For months i've heard we won't miss charlie and the incomings will cover the loss of the outgoings. I've heard we expect to jump a position. Which all makes sense.
Until you look into that with.... 1. The incomings and outgoings mirror sydney. That is Charlie, Florent and Hayward swapped. Our incoming, covers the outgoing. Which suggests the opposite for them. 2. We finished 11th last year, Sydney finished 10th. THEY are the position we expect to jump up into 3. We are relatively fit, with most of our injuries to fringe players. Jagga back is an upgrade on anything we have out.
So why do the people who have been saying these things, things a 3-4 goal loss is 'about right' ?
If we won't miss the players that left and the team is improved with the players coming in and we expect to improve on last year, then why doesn't that translate into a win against Sydney??
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 03, 2026, 05:16:33 pm
Sydney had one off year and were grand finalists the year before. They havent gone too far backwards is my only logic. Its possible we both rise this season, and they experience a greater rise than we do, which is the result of head to head perhaps a win for them.
Personally, im tipping us to win in a narrow affair, as there wasnt much between us last year, and there isnt much between us this year. They likely have more continuity, and we likely have more newness. Both are factors that could tip it either way imho.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 03, 2026, 05:39:11 pm
I have high hopes of improvement for this season Jump a place and we play finals ;) But I expect it to be a gradual build, as players get to understand and work with one another under the 'real' pressure of an AFL game.
We really don't know a lot about our side, and how they'll gel. Practice games are only as good an indicator as the effort that's actually put in by both sides This is the test. I reckon 3-4 goals will be acceptable, as long as the effort is there. Swans were a superior side to us in 2025. They had a bad start to last year and suffered some significant injuries, but finished the season with 8 wins out of the last 11 games They are on their home ground. Talking them down and raising expectations is actually the kind of thing that brings pressure on a coach if we fail to beat this "mediocre" side.
A win is not out of the question and much will depend on how the side comes together with a number of new players. 3-4 goals (with effort) will be a reasonable first up result. It will be the manner of the result that will lead to pressure on players and coach. What we don't want, and can't afford is a blowout, or a lapse where they pile on the goals after we make a good start.
I'm struggling to see some of the logic in peoples opinions on this match.
Me too...Some folks spend all the off-season rubbishing the list management and fretting over lost players and then go out and tip us against the third favourite for the flag on their home ground. :D
For months i've heard we won't miss charlie and the incomings will cover the loss of the outgoings. I've heard we expect to jump a position. Which all makes sense.
Until you look into that with.... 1. The incomings and outgoings mirror sydney. That is Charlie, Florent and Hayward swapped. Our incoming, covers the outgoing. Which suggests the opposite for them. 2. We finished 11th last year, Sydney finished 10th. THEY are the position we expect to jump up into 3. We are relatively fit, with most of our injuries to fringe players. Jagga back is an upgrade on anything we have out.
So why do the people who have been saying these things, things a 3-4 goal loss is 'about right' ?
If we won't miss the players that left and the team is improved with the players coming in and we expect to improve on last year, then why doesn't that translate into a win against Sydney??
Because first games of the season are completely unpredictable. They are even more unpredictable with quite a few players playing their first game together. We'll build connections as the season goes on. When Charlie left us he was a bit of a wreck, he looks to be up and firing.
1.-Here's the part you seem to struggle with... The assessment of the loss of Charlie was never about Charlie in good shape. It was about the 2025 version of Charlie. And we didn't lose a lot losing 'Charlie 2025.' We only have to cover 'Charlie 2025' to be better
2.We're not taking the Swans 10th spot...we're going to take the 2026 team that would fill that spot if we don't take it. That's who we have to beat. Swans are tipped to go top 4, and while I'd like that spot...probably not this year.
3. It will take our side a while to gel and Jagga in particular will get a bit more attention this week.
In spite of the fact I think we'll have a better season, the Swans are currently third favourite for the flag so beating them would be a pretty good achievement.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: rocky on March 03, 2026, 06:57:31 pm
Great to see Weitering given the go ahead. Hopefully he plays, but even if he's a late out at least it's a better outcome than what was being reported a couple of weeks ago.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 03, 2026, 07:58:01 pm
Love us to give it a kick start...but I think it will be the Swans by 3-4 goals.
I'm looking to this year as an improvement on last year, and while that result may seem contradictory it actually aligns with their 2025 ladder positions. They only finished one spot above us, but had three more wins. Add to that its on their home ground. If we win this one it will be a great start.
Not sure Voss or the Fans will tolerate a 3-4 goal loss to a midpack team even on their home ground. Thats going to start the timber being ordered for the gallows...I think the time has passed for accepting honorable losses.
It will be very tough but I am expecting to go there and get a win and give The Peanut a very hard time on the way through.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 03, 2026, 08:17:51 pm
If reckon if you can pick around 75% of the Round 0 starting line up at this stage you're going to be doing pretty well :D
Challange accepted
FB Saad Weitering Derksen HB Florent Dean Young C Ollie Cripps Elijah HF Hayward Kemp Moir FF Byrne McKay Ainsworth Foll Pittonet Hewett Walsh Int Smith Chesser Lord Evans (minus the shades) Reidy
Reasoning as follows: I dont trust Pittonet to go in with one ruckman, if its one its Reidy HOK appears miles off Happy to move on from Gov & Acres Zaccy W unlucky but the other boys (Byrne and Ainsworth) have shown plenty up fwd compared to ZW (small sample size granted) Derksen hasn't put a foot wrong and is hungry, ditto Reidy. Fogarty seemed to have a strapped hammy after the game. I have this inkling young Dean has been pestering Vossy for weeks with "Gimme Charlie, I'll get it done". The boy does not lack confidence to go with his competitiveness.
FB Saad Weitering Derksen HB Florent Dean Young C Ollie Cripps Elijah HF Hayward Kemp Moir FF Williams McKay Ainsworth Foll Pittonet Hewett Walsh Int Smith Chesser Lord McGovern Reidy
Evans out given he is injured?? Byrne doesnt look like he is getting a debut as only Jagga and Dean were announced today. Gov and Williams in for me.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: DJC on March 03, 2026, 08:50:39 pm
It will be very tough but I am expecting to go there and get a win and give The Peanut a very hard time on the way through.
Hayward spoke about playing against Carlton and being intimidated by the crowd. You’re going to have to make a lot of noise G2C 🙂
I have every confidence that you can get the boys over the line 🤞
Ill make noise dont worry about that.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: townsendcalling on March 04, 2026, 03:43:39 am
Believe it or not individual teams go into Round 1 with different mindsets depending on their stage of development. Leigh Matthews used to build into the season, and look at peaking at the right time. I dare say Chris Scott thinks likewise as would Chris Fagan. Ross Lyon will have StKilda wound up tighter than a 50's wrist watch to ensure they usher in the new era with a win...... and Vossie has a new game plan that needs to show credibility and effectiveness. So where does that leave Dean Cox and the Swan? Will their attitude be all about showing off their shiny new toy and how that one piece of the jigsaw is enough to take them back into the top 4, or are they at a stage where the build up to a season is the way to go. As is repeated so often before (and after) around 1 games, it's worth 4 point, like every other round..... nothing more, nothing less. I think the Swans in Round 16 would be a far more dangerous outfit than in Round 1.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: tonyo on March 04, 2026, 07:55:49 am
Believe it or not individual teams go into Round 1 with different mindsets depending on their stage of development. Leigh Matthews used to build into the season, and look at peaking at the right time. I dare say Chris Scott thinks likewise as would Chris Fagan. Ross Lyon will have StKilda wound up tighter than a 50's wrist watch to ensure they usher in the new era with a win...... and Vossie has a new game plan that needs to show credibility and effectiveness. So where does that leave Dean Cox and the Swan? Will their attitude be all about showing off their shiny new toy and how that one piece of the jigsaw is enough to take them back into the top 4, or are they at a stage where the build up to a season is the way to go. As is repeated so often before (and after) around 1 games, it's worth 4 point, like every other round..... nothing more, nothing less. I think the Swans in Round 16 would be a far more dangerous outfit than in Round 1.
This is a game that the Swans are expected to win, and they also need to show that bringing in Curnow and ejecting Hayward and Florent has been the right move. They also need to show the Sydney crowd that they are back after a disappointing 2025. If they were to lose this game, it would be a major loss for them, not only the 4 points, but far more significantly from a PR point of view.
Carlton, on the other hand, have lost 3 significant players and are trying to introduce a completely new game style.
Therein lies the opportunity - an unknown quantity that might just ruin the party. We can only hope.....
Imagine if the game came down to a Hayward or Curnow kick after the siren.....
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 04, 2026, 09:19:39 am
Believe it or not individual teams go into Round 1 with different mindsets depending on their stage of development. Leigh Matthews used to build into the season, and look at peaking at the right time. I dare say Chris Scott thinks likewise as would Chris Fagan. Ross Lyon will have StKilda wound up tighter than a 50's wrist watch to ensure they usher in the new era with a win...... and Vossie has a new game plan that needs to show credibility and effectiveness. So where does that leave Dean Cox and the Swan? Will their attitude be all about showing off their shiny new toy and how that one piece of the jigsaw is enough to take them back into the top 4, or are they at a stage where the build up to a season is the way to go. As is repeated so often before (and after) around 1 games, it's worth 4 point, like every other round..... nothing more, nothing less. I think the Swans in Round 16 would be a far more dangerous outfit than in Round 1.
This is a game that the Swans are expected to win, and they also need to show that bringing in Curnow and ejecting Hayward and Florent has been the right move. They also need to show the Sydney crowd that they are back after a disappointing 2025. If they were to lose this game, it would be a major loss for them, not only the 4 points, but far more significantly from a PR point of view.
Carlton, on the other hand, have lost 3 significant players and are trying to introduce a completely new game style.
Therein lies the opportunity - an unknown quantity that might just ruin the party. We can only hope.....
Imagine if the game came down to a Hayward or Curnow kick after the siren.....
Don't forget we have a coach hanging onto his job by a thread. The excuses of who we lost won't be accepted by the management and unless we pocket early wins the knifes will be sharpened by mid season.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 04, 2026, 09:39:35 am
There is a fair bit of pressure on the Swans too Cox hasn't exactly set the world on fire. They're expected to win Betting is currently $1.29 to $3.64
Voss's future won't be decided on this one game...but, yes, he does need early wins. He probably needs to get to the half-way point of the season with an even win/loss ratio. A win over the Swans would be a good early buffer.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 04, 2026, 11:36:29 am
There is a fair bit of pressure on the Swans too Cox hasn't exactly set the world on fire. They're expected to win Betting is currently $1.29 to $3.64
Voss's future won't be decided on this one game...but, yes, he does need early wins. He probably needs to get to the half-way point of the season with an even win/loss ratio. A win over the Swans would be a good early buffer.
I reckon Voss needs a positive win/loss ratio by mid season as that's when decisions will start to be made. Cox will be in the firing line too if Charlie the wonder dog isn't firing and the team are struggling..
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: DJC on March 04, 2026, 11:59:32 am
I reckon Voss needs a positive win/loss ratio by mid season as that's when decisions will start to be made. Cox will be in the firing line too if Charlie the wonder dog isn't firing and the team are struggling..
Wright and Davies have both warned that it may take a while for the new players and coaches to gel but I think you’re right. At the very least there’ll have to be an improvement on last season evident by mid season.
Cox reminds me of a rabbit giraffe in the headlights 🙄
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: tonyo on March 04, 2026, 03:13:30 pm
Compared to average humans, blood is less oxygenated by the time it reaches a ruckman's brain......
As funny as this may be, there is some science to support the issue of blood pressure differential and body size, with Giraffes being the obvious extreme case.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Adelaideblue on March 04, 2026, 03:59:37 pm
If Frankie Evans is out, Flynn Young or Talor Byrne may come in to consideration. Given the number of new players having to gel together tomorrow night, perhaps Flynn Young gets the nod. Based on his AFL experience and 4 goal haul in seconds last week.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 04, 2026, 04:14:09 pm
If Frankie Evans is out, Flynn Young or Talor Byrne may come in to consideration. Given the number of new players having to gel together tomorrow night, perhaps Flynn Young gets the nod. Based on his AFL experience and 4 goal haul in seconds last week.
4 goals in the 2nds to Flynn or 3 goals in the 1sts to Byrne
I'd almost give the nod to Byrne
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Adelaideblue on March 04, 2026, 04:31:03 pm
Yes agree it could go either way. Byrne certainly an exciting prospect based on his form in those two preseason short cameos! Just think the coaches may wait a game or two with Talor, but happy if he's given the nod v Swans. We will soon know this week's call.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 04, 2026, 05:23:37 pm
If Frankie Evans is out, Flynn Young or Talor Byrne may come in to consideration. Given the number of new players having to gel together tomorrow night, perhaps Flynn Young gets the nod. Based on his AFL experience and 4 goal haul in seconds last week.
4 goals in the 2nds to Flynn or 3 goals in the 1sts to Byrne
I'd almost give the nod to Byrne
Agree, Id play Byrne, his pace is a weapon, Id be more inclined to start with Byrne on the bench and Zac Williams replacing Evans as my forward pocket. While not a real fan of ZW over the journey I can appreciate his best work has been forward and he has been a consistent converter when getting opportunities and he is more likely to help get us off to a good start and hit the scoreboard early. I think Byrne coming on later to cameo with some tired Swans defenders could net us some goals and finish the game off well...
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Professer E on March 04, 2026, 05:45:12 pm
Byrne certainly wouldn't take any backwards steps, real tough critter.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Buli on March 04, 2026, 05:46:44 pm
I hear the boys are flying up on game day
I do FIFO, not dissimilar to off the plane go to work site he is your shovel.
Fly them in the day before good night kip warm up in the morning happy days.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 04, 2026, 06:35:35 pm
That's a good effort. I think Gointocarlton did pretty well with his picks too.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: bobby on March 04, 2026, 06:55:42 pm
We just had 2 wins in meaningless games against last years finalists, but we couldn’t have done this if they hadn’t a degree of ‘gel-ing’. They are a better foundation than we realise I reckon. for one am very excited about tomorrow night .The MC has backed the recruiters. 7 newbies mean things will change.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Blue Moon on March 04, 2026, 07:01:19 pm
I got 21 out of 23.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 04, 2026, 07:20:53 pm
That's a good effort. I think Gointocarlton did pretty well with his picks too.
I had a couple of cracks as I didnt know Evans was injured and thought Fog was. I think I got 22 out 23 the 2nd time as opposed to 20 out of 23 the first time (although not quite "as named" in position which we all know they wont line up like that). I thought Derksen was unlucky, not even an emergency. Moir was very lucky and needs to extract the digit come the real stuff. Two rucks was always obvious to me but for different reasons to Voss probably. I just reckon Pitto cant be trusted to last solo.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 04, 2026, 07:24:59 pm
Gone very tall.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: BlackRooster on March 04, 2026, 07:30:09 pm
Wonder if the team changes a little if the weather turns??????
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 04, 2026, 08:46:49 pm
We've gone with three KPDs, two KPFs (one a little on the small side) and two rucks and Sydney has three KPDs, three KPFs and one ruck. I guess Cripps gives us an extra tall if he rests forward.
It would be interesting to see the average heights of the two teams. I suspect that Sydney would be taller.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Baggers on March 05, 2026, 08:22:39 am
I reckon Derksen is a bit stiff. He'll be playing before much longer.
Boyd appears back in calculations after a year where he appeared forgotten.
Fog is a bit lucky: Evans' injury probably sealed his spot, although Byrne could take it away soon.
Yep, Fogarty is very lucky... probably in because Frankie is injured.
Sadly, I'd trust Derks with ball in hand more than Young.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 05, 2026, 08:54:24 am
So, with a third of the side playing their first game in Navy Blue in the first game of the season, the range of possible results is off the chart. It could be anything from a heavy loss to a comfortable win.
The 'unknown' factor can work both ways. It may help us by keeping the Swans guessing about the way we will play. Many predictions of a win are based on the "catch them by surprise" idea rather than "we're a better side". On the other hand, it may be that any improved aspects of our play in the practice games will fall apart under the pressure of a 'real' game.
While a good start to the season is important, more important will be the coming weeks as the players get used to playing together. We've seen in the last two years how injury can impact the performance of a side that has had the advantage of many years together. The injury impact on a side that is relatively 'new' to each other would be much greater. So, no major injuries. We need to have a 'consistency of personnel' early on so that the bonds can develop.
Tonight is important All summer we've had a 'back and forth' about whether we'll improve or go backwards At the end of the game we'll have a better idea of 'what worked' and 'what needs work'. But we also need a body of about half a dozen games before we start to make real definitive judgements. (So let's not go off 'half-cocked' whatever the result. :D )
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 05, 2026, 09:27:13 am
Ive seen seasons where after 4 rounds premiers become dunces and missed finals, and Brisbane two years ago looked no where near it until round 6 then went bang.
One games evidence is evidence only of how we performed in one game.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: madbluboy on March 05, 2026, 10:15:35 am
Mocked about the sky is falling all summer now the moment of truth has arrived and no one is backing us to win lol.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 05, 2026, 10:24:23 am
Sydney had one off year and were grand finalists the year before. They havent gone too far backwards is my only logic. Its possible we both rise this season, and they experience a greater rise than we do, which is the result of head to head perhaps a win for them.
Personally, im tipping us to win in a narrow affair, as there wasnt much between us last year, and there isnt much between us this year. They likely have more continuity, and we likely have more newness. Both are factors that could tip it either way imho.
@MBB
Not sure where that comes from.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: tex on March 05, 2026, 10:31:05 am
We’ve lost it at the selection table IMO
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Adelaideblue on March 05, 2026, 11:13:14 am
Blues by 5 points
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 05, 2026, 11:36:26 am
I think Young and Weitering are as mistake, Derkson should've got a gig.
Weitering i don't think is fit and i think he should've been rested until he is 100%. Young i think is lucky to get a game, and i think Derkson has been better in the pre-season games.
I'm not sure what Chesser has done to get a game either. Moir and Fog would be a bit lucky too.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 05, 2026, 11:53:29 am
Mocked about the sky is falling all summer now the moment of truth has arrived and no one is backing us to win lol.
For those like minded... We're not Mick Malthouse who couldn't see where we'll lose a game. Most can see where we'll lose a few. For me, this is one that will challenge us. But it's one game in many.
What we dont see is a dramatic fall in our ladder position. If we win as many as we lose we'll have improved.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 05, 2026, 12:02:14 pm
Mocked about the sky is falling all summer now the moment of truth has arrived and no one is backing us to win lol.
For those like minded... We're not Mick Malthouse who couldn't see where we'll lose a game. Most can see where we'll lose a few. For me, this is one that will challenge us. But it's one game in many.
What we dont see is a dramatic fall in our ladder position. If we win as many as we lose we'll have improved.
Thats a bit cheeky Lods.
Mick was just saying that every game you are a chance of winning (and losing) so going into a game saying you can't win is not something he would do. Which i challenge anyone to show a coach who thinks otherwise and throws in the towel before the game is played.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: tex on March 05, 2026, 12:20:38 pm
I think Young and Weitering are as mistake, Derkson should've got a gig.
Weitering i don't think is fit and i think he should've been rested until he is 100%. Young i think is lucky to get a game, and i think Derkson has been better in the pre-season games.
I'm not sure what Chesser has done to get a game either. Moir and Fog would be a bit lucky too.
Pretty much agree. Think Moir is an X factor so don’t mind carrying him a bit so long as he puts in effort.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Professer E on March 05, 2026, 12:28:45 pm
Moir seems to improve as the season goes on, has been close to useless early doors previous seasons
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: LP on March 05, 2026, 12:33:50 pm
Moir seems to improve as the season goes on, has been close to useless early doors previous seasons
I can see a point of difference this pre-season, not just in Moir but in our list in general.
In the past we bulked up over the pre-season, we looked bigger and heavier, but the tactically our game style suffered with heavy legs. This pre-season to a man our squad looks leaner, but not one of them looks wasted soft, they look lean hard. More Ken Hunter than Robert Klomp. ( Relative to Mr Average the AFL players are never soft, but you know what I mean. )
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 05, 2026, 12:47:19 pm
For those like minded... We're not Mick Malthouse who couldn't see where we'll lose a game. Most can see where we'll lose a few. For me, this is one that will challenge us. But it's one game in many.
What we dont see is a dramatic fall in our ladder position. If we win as many as we lose we'll have improved.
Thats a bit cheeky Lods.
Mick was just saying that every game you are a chance of winning (and losing) so going into a game saying you can't win is not something he would do. Which i challenge anyone to show a coach who thinks otherwise and throws in the towel before the game is played.
I know exactly what he was saying...at a time when the club was pulling the rug out from underneath him...and setting us back. Of course he didn't believe it.
The point is I don't think anyone was saying we'd be Premiers this year. We might be, but it would be totally unexpected.
What we've been suggesting all summer is that despite losing players we won't see a dramatic fall in ladder position or games won....and hopefully an improvement ln both. Thinking a win here will be difficult is not contradictory to that position.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: LP on March 05, 2026, 12:51:23 pm
I know exactly what he was saying...at a time when the club was pulling the rug out from underneath him...and setting us back. Of course he didn't believe it.
The club and media took a largely similar declaration from Ratten and used it to hang him, to me that was the real contradiction!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: LP on March 05, 2026, 02:23:34 pm
There is a lot of argy bargy about winning and losing this game.
Reality is the media have been predicting our loss since trade week, before the draw was even out or the lists were even settled! In recent history if we lose they'll say "I told you so", if we win it will be "An upset for the ages" or "A game the Swans lost!", most will never claim Carlton deserved the win!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 05, 2026, 02:30:53 pm
I think Young and Weitering are as mistake, Derkson should've got a gig.
Weitering i don't think is fit and i think he should've been rested until he is 100%. Young i think is lucky to get a game, and i think Derkson has been better in the pre-season games.
I'm not sure what Chesser has done to get a game either. Moir and Fog would be a bit lucky too.
Pretty much agree. Think Moir is an X factor so don’t mind carrying him a bit so long as he puts in effort.
I had my 23 sorted a few days ago and checked it against what we actually chose.
I was only 2 off.
I didnt have fogarty and young in the team. Instead i had byne and derkson.
The 2 others i mentioned, chesser and moir were the last 2 picked. Moir being picked due to the x factor we all know he has. Chesser because it was essentially a toss of the coin, so just went with the new guy.....but with little confidence in him.
With a few players coming back in next couple weeks, theyd want to have a big game, young too.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: DJC on March 05, 2026, 02:33:25 pm
There is a lot of argy bargy about winning and losing this game.
Reality is the media have been predicting our loss since trade week, before the draw was even out or the lists were even settled! In recent history if we lose they'll say "I told you so", if we win it will be "An upset for the ages" or "A game the Swans lost!", most will never claim Carlton deserved the win!
Yes the media have done quite well setting this up so they can't fail.
It's always a big ask playing the Swans in Sydney and even more so when there's so many newbies in the team. I think that that will work in our favour and we'll continue on from where we left off in the practice matches; another score of around 15 goals and a comfortable if hard fought win.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 05, 2026, 02:36:33 pm
Lots of Bluebaggers around Sydney. Saw Caleb Marchbank in Circular Quay.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 05, 2026, 02:41:58 pm
Lots of Bluebaggers around Sydney. Saw Caleb Marchbank in Circular Quay.
Was it his walking frame that gave it away
Looked good actually, has a young child these days.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 05, 2026, 03:02:45 pm
Like a lot of blues fans had a soft spot for the big fella - was a period where he strung a decent run of games in a row and was just starting to show how good it could be. Then something let him down as usual.
Body was cooked from the start unfortunately
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: DJC on March 05, 2026, 03:47:47 pm
Like a lot of blues fans had a soft spot for the big fella - was a period where he strung a decent run of games in a row and was just starting to show how good it could be. Then something let him down as usual.
Body was cooked from the start unfortunately
Extremely talented, just had a body not up to the rigours of AFL at the elite level.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Baggers on March 05, 2026, 05:27:56 pm
So that's seven players wearing the CFC monogram for the first time and two making their AFL debuts.
I was a little surprised at Fog getting a game but I understand that Vossy likes the defensive pressure that he applies.
I'm pleased to see Chesser get a game. He was very good against Geelong and has genuine foot speed that will shock a few Swans.
I'm pretty happy with that combination. I think we'll cover the Swans fairly well and they could well struggle with our new structures.
And I got 20 out of the 23 :)
Ditto, 20 from 23. I missed on Byrne, Boyd and Derks, though two of them are emergencies ;D
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Baggers on March 05, 2026, 05:41:59 pm
Not surprisingly, not one expert in mainstream media, that I can find, has picked the Bluebaggers to win. Fluffy Ducks the overwhelming fave for R 0. Hard to mount a logical case for us to win in all honesty. However...
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 05, 2026, 06:44:12 pm
John Ralph just quoting new footy boss Davies - "Weitering is not 100%, but he's good enough"
2 years on and we still spout this nonsense.
Chances of him reinjuring himself and being out for the next month or 2??? Highly likely IMO.
Don't tempt the footy gods, they keep biting us on the butt.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: BluePhantom on March 05, 2026, 07:12:00 pm
I have a good feeling about is this year. Our list seems pretty even and balanced... finally. Our A+ players have stayed the same but it's the A & B players we have a better spread of. Still the occasional C grade player but a better smattering of players with good skills. Teams with more good foot soldiers seem to do better. This does make sense right?
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 05, 2026, 07:17:37 pm
I was just thinking imagine Voss in his prime as captain and a player as big as charlie jumped ship. that first game against him Voss would be at his intimidating ruthless best. He would be bloody scary.
i hope our leaders dont laugh joke with Curnow but give it to him verbally and physically. He is no1 enemy now not a mate.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Pre-game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney in Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 05, 2026, 10:40:10 pm
I was just thinking imagine Voss in his prime as captain and a player as big as charlie jumped ship. that first game against him Voss would be at his intimidating ruthless best. He would be bloody scary.
i hope our leaders dont laugh joke with Curnow but give it to him verbally and physically. He is no1 enemy now not a mate.