You would have to have rocks in your head to think we were going to win.
I thought we could, but i was wrong.
Theyre a quality side and theyll be hard to beat. Hopefully the guys we got from them will help us fix the malaise at our club.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: MickyO on March 05, 2026, 10:39:07 pm
Okay I only listened to the fourth on the radio.
So we ran out of steam a bit / some players had to blow out the cobwebs, no Newman or Cerra Or Haynes down back.
Kemp and Elijah no games last year; Saad injured.
Etc etc.
We will Improve i have faith 🙏🏽
As someone said, AFL did us no favours with this… but thats ok we will get there.
And fk CC 🖕🏼🖕🏼🖕🏼🖕🏼
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 05, 2026, 10:40:53 pm
Time to extend voss contract. The man is a genius and im worried 17 other clubs will poach the great man.
Give him a Walsh like contract.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 05, 2026, 10:53:41 pm
Saad should have retired. the bloke has zilch football brain. Yep hes fast with his legs but snail pace with knowing what to do with the pill when he is running a hundred miles an hour. just runs till he is about to be caught then dishes it off to the first player he sees.
And the move to put williams in defence after looking settled in the F50 is yet another brain fart from the coaching group
Harry will find life so much harder without a number 1 foward beside him. The bloke is over 200 cm yet refuses to break pack to at least bring the ball to the ground. if he is not in front of a pack he is absolutely useless.
Young is simply not an afl standard and the fact he still gets games says a lot about where our list is at.
Mcgovern contiunes to do mcgovern things. Another one who gets a game due to the weakness of our list.
Dean and Jagga could not have been more impressive.
The afl will need to make it a final 14 for us to be in with a chance.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 05, 2026, 10:54:46 pm
Very disappointing after a reasonable start. Their fitness levels were another level above ours. Their physicality was a level above ours. Tackles were 67-38 in their favour. We have a few younger players including Jagga who are a little light on which makes it hard to compete physically against their more mature midfielders. Once they got on top in the middle it was game over. Inconsistency was a feature of our side, with players drifting in and out of the game (more out than in)
Cripps was pretty undisciplined tonight. Jagga's disposal wasn't as neat as in the last practice game...but he still showed a fair bit. The forward set up was as shambolic as it was last year. We need to sort that. Moir is a cameo player and actually looks better when he's further down the field. We need a crumbing forward (Byrne perhaps) to take advantage of the two resting ruckman bringing the ball to ground. I thought Dean was very good for a first gamer...he didn't shirk the task and brings a physical presence. A couple of years in the system and he'll be a beauty.
One thing I didn't want to see, which is exactly what happened, was the run of goals. There is no excuse for that.
That goes to a... "when the going gets tough, the side goes missing"
Lastly, if you have a spare shillling or two get onto the Swans. They've got a pretty decent group, who know how to flick a switch.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 05, 2026, 11:23:55 pm
I sat behind the goals at ground level so btw that and the goons in front us standing up all the time, it was to “see” the game. My comments are As follows: - we controlled the game quite well in the first half - we transitioned the ball very well in the first half. - at about the 10 min mark of the 3rd, we looked out of petrol and fatigued. The mistakes started at that point. I thought it was going to be a tough assignment but a 12 goal to 4 3rd was as bad as I have seen from us. I dont know what we do at the 1/2 time break in the rooms with food and drink but its been a while that we come out in the 3rd looking they need a sleep because their bellies are full. Not a good start to 2027
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: crashlander on March 05, 2026, 11:33:48 pm
I sat behind the goals at ground level so btw that and the goons in front us standing up all the time, it was to “see” the game. My comments are As follows: - we controlled the game quite well in the first half - we transitioned the ball very well in the first half. - at about the 10 min mark of the 3rd, we looked out of petrol and fatigued. The mistakes started at that point. I thought it was going to be a tough assignment but a 12 goal to 4 3rd was as bad as I have seen from us. I dont know what we do at the 1/2 time break in the rooms with food and drink but its been a while that we come out in the 3rd looking they need a sleep because their bellies are full. Not a good start to 2027
I must admit I've seen nothing of the game. But some things stood out anyway. [1] Our fitness level does not seem up to par. I know it was in Sydney and it was hot and humid, but our lack of fitness cost us most of the games we lost. To see us fade out again suggests we haven't addressed that at all. [2] We still looked slow. That one hurts, considering how much we've changed the side. [3] We lacked discipline: Unforgivable, especially when it is the Captain who was probably the worst offender. [4] We still didn't give our forwards much of a chance. What can I say? We controlled the game for most of it, but didn't kick many goals. They controlled much less of the game, but they piled on the goals when it counted. [5] Even with the changes in the coaching box, we still struggled in that area.
We have a long way to go, but these problems bode poorly. Lots of headed rolled at the end of 2025. More will roll if we can't show some improvement.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Professer E on March 06, 2026, 06:31:39 am
Saad was finished last year and is cooked. Williams cannot play in defence ever, still can't believe people think he can. MacGovern is a real problem because he can't be trusted to do the right thing. Young looks bereft of confidence - doubt he ever had any.
There's four only getting a game because critical players are out. Vos continues to place faith in blokes who continue to cook us, and him. So Michael....learn from your mistake and move on.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: madbluboy on March 06, 2026, 06:37:42 am
Saad was finished last year and is cooked. Williams cannot play in defence ever, still can't believe people think he can. MacGovern is a real problem because he can't be trusted to do the right thing. Young looks bereft of confidence - doubt he ever had any.
There's four only getting a game because critical players are out. Vos continues to place faith in blokes who continue to cook us, and him. So Michael....learn from your mistake and move on.
Plus we lost three of our better players who are in their prime. Crap list management.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Professer E on March 06, 2026, 07:27:41 am
Round one and we're already putting compromised teams out on the park due to injuries and boneheaded selection. Odds on Voss surviving the year must be very slim.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ratlice on March 06, 2026, 08:34:35 am
I've seen all this before!!!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 06, 2026, 08:44:24 am
Round one and we're already putting compromised teams out on the park due to injuries and boneheaded selection. Odds on Voss surviving the year must be very slim.
He will survive the year, but if he wanted a contract for next year, conceding 12 goals in a quarter is one way to make sure you lose your chance to keep coaching into next year.
That quarter is going to hang over his head like the sword of damocles all season.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: MickyO on March 06, 2026, 08:48:35 am
How did Lord go?
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: rocky on March 06, 2026, 08:57:08 am
Was OK early on. Got a fair bit of the ball but didn't always use it wisely, then tired like the rest of the team. Problem for him is he has no pace. Just like George, Cripps, Ollie H and to a certain extent Walsh. Smith has a bit of toe, but he's just a baby.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: bratblue on March 06, 2026, 09:09:31 am
Lord can't handball effectivly in close. I saw it last year and again last night. A combination of strength and technique and he plays along side the best in the business.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: madbluboy on March 06, 2026, 09:15:41 am
Round one and we're already putting compromised teams out on the park due to injuries and boneheaded selection. Odds on Voss surviving the year must be very slim.
He will survive the year, but if he wanted a contract for next year, conceding 12 goals in a quarter is one way to make sure you lose your chance to keep coaching into next year.
That quarter is going to hang over his head like the sword of damocles all season.
The next month will seal his fate. Drop any of the next 3 matches against Richmond, Melbourne and North then he won't be coaching in 2026. Lose them all and Good Friday will be his last game
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 06, 2026, 09:38:17 am
He's a player I have a bit of hope in. He turns 21 in couple of weeks,so he's still very young. He wasn't our worst by any stretch, but once the pressure came on he was pretty much overwhelmed. The intensity of that period was so much greater than the practice matches and Lord struggled a bit with the speed of the game.
Lord can't handball effectivly in close. I saw it last year and again last night. A combination of strength and technique and he plays along side the best in the business.
As bb points out his disposals became rushed and inaccurate as the pressure increased. Now as I see it, Lord's plays a bit of a role as a defensive midfielder. He's one of the very few of our mids with a strong defensive side to his game. Exactly what we needed when the Swans midfield started to cut us up. And therein lies one of our problems...we don't have many.
An interesting stat that perhaps reflects the difference between a practice game and a real game is this one. Lord had 13 tackles against Geelong in the practice game. Last night he had 0
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 06, 2026, 09:46:57 am
Saad was finished last year and is cooked. Williams cannot play in defence ever, still can't believe people think he can. MacGovern is a real problem because he can't be trusted to do the right thing. Young looks bereft of confidence - doubt he ever had any.
There's four only getting a game because critical players are out. Vos continues to place faith in blokes who continue to cook us, and him. So Michael....learn from your mistake and move on.
Agree and Harry is a major worry imo. He is over 200cm and plays like a mid sized forward. Has no presence and if he is all we have a main marking forward we are stuffed.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: madbluboy on March 06, 2026, 09:52:19 am
Harry was fine last year when he played. Last night he looked ill.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 06, 2026, 09:53:10 am
While he may be desperately needed in defence, I wouldn't mind seeing how Derksen goes in the forward line.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: laj on March 06, 2026, 09:53:41 am
He will survive the year, but if he wanted a contract for next year, conceding 12 goals in a quarter is one way to make sure you lose your chance to keep coaching into next year.
That quarter is going to hang over his head like the sword of damocles all season.
The next month will seal his fate. Drop any of the next 3 matches against Richmond, Melbourne and North then he won't be coaching in 2026. Lose them all and Good Friday will be his last game
A loss next week will do it. Obvious they are not playing for him. Saw that last year. Should have cut the cord then. They just stopped trying last night.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: madbluboy on March 06, 2026, 09:56:35 am
So 5 minutes into the 3rd quarter the boys decided not to play for Voss? Don't think so.
We haven't ran out games well since we sacked Andrew Russell.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: PaulP on March 06, 2026, 09:59:27 am
Yes, more coach churn is definitely the answer.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 06, 2026, 10:01:17 am
He will survive the year, but if he wanted a contract for next year, conceding 12 goals in a quarter is one way to make sure you lose your chance to keep coaching into next year.
That quarter is going to hang over his head like the sword of damocles all season.
The next month will seal his fate. Drop any of the next 3 matches against Richmond, Melbourne and North then he won't be coaching in 2026. Lose them all and Good Friday will be his last game
Should of replaced him last year.
Voss was an amazing footballer and led by example on the field. The game these days is a tactical one in the coaches box and he is totally at sea and powerless to make any moves in particular to arrest momentum. What coach just sits and watches while 12 goals are piled on in a quarter first game of the year. Then in the presser says there are positives and we showed in the PS games our system works. Hes delusional to even reference a game where the opposition particularly playing 2 teams that played in the GF are not playing to win but playing for fitness and conditioning.
Loved him as a footballer but that reference was telling about how out of touch he is.
Im not suggesting a new coach with transform our average list into world beaters but the coaches role is to get the best out of what he has and his lack of knowing what levels to pull pushes us back even further.
Get someone in who can actually coach the modern game.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: LP on March 06, 2026, 10:01:45 am
Fans focus on the wrong things.
The problem wasn't really the third quarter at all, the 3rd was inevitable given the wasted efforts of the first half. We were dominant in the first half but unable to score, it's demoralising and leaves the opposition cherry ripe to overrun our team. This is a story that repeats itself.
I've mentioned before, if we do not see a significant change in game style, if our tactics barely change despite significant list changes, it's a big negative because we are exposed as obviously formulaic. Everybody knows what we do, and plan for it accordingly, we bring little innovation.
As for the beat up around the game in the media, you can see that for yourself, and even in the broadcast when the special commentary went on about our players "gobbing off" at Curnow, then after the game Curnow tells the reporters he received the silent treatment from our squad. How do they twist this onto us, today they report we were full of spite and lost focus, is the media calling Curnow a liar? Also note the beat up about Florent and Mills, then post-game they take a selfie together! My advice to fans is to watch the game carefully and look for yourself, do not be influenced by the noise and spin that is basically designed to prey on your emotions. If you feel you cannot disconnect from the commentary, turn off the volume and you will experience a completely different game!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 06, 2026, 10:08:23 am
The problem wasn't really the third quarter at all, the 3rd was inevitable given the wasted efforts of the first half. We were dominant in the first half but unable to score, it's demoralising and leaves the opposition cherry ripe to overrun our team. This is a story that repeats itself.
I've mentioned before, if we do not see a significant change in game style, if our tactics barely change despite significant list changes, it's a big negative because we are exposed as obviously formulaic. Everybody knows what we do, and plan for it accordingly, we bring little innovation.
As for the beat up around the game in the media, you can see that for yourself, and even in the broadcast when the special commentary went on about our players "gobbing off" at Curnow, then after the game Curnow tells the reporters he received the silent treatment from our squad. How do they twist this onto us, today they report we were full of spite and lost focus, is the media calling Curnow a liar? Also note the beat up about Florent and Mills, then post-game they take a selfie together! My advice to fans is to watch the game carefully and look for yourself, do not be influenced by the noise and spin that is basically designed to prey on your emotions. If you feel you cannot disconnect from the commentary, turn off the volume and you will experience a completely different game!
There were rumours around last year that some players were glad to see the back of Curnow. They gave it to him during the game but all the 'key' players seemed to have no issue having a hug, and a handshake, and a grin after the game. Charlie seemed a little emotional. I'm not sure Charlie's issues were with the playing group so much as with other areas of the club.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 06, 2026, 10:08:44 am
There were rumours around last year that some players were glad to see the back of Curnow. They gave it to him during the game but all the 'key' players seemed to have no issue having a hug, and a handshake, and a grin after the game. Charlie seemed a little emotional. I'm not sure Charlie's issues were with the playing group so much as with other areas of the club.
I understand that perspective, but the surrounding abhorrent commentary is completely disconnected from reality, win or lose it is ruining the game!
I think part of the problem is that the commentary team, due to the nepotistic nature, is bored with the athleticism and physicality, because as old boys they have done it as a job for years and years for it to become ho hum. So they focus on what titillates them, the bitch laps, the social burns and the emotions, crap most of the public do not give a rat's clacker about. I suspect most of the commentary crew would prefer to watch an episode of MAFS than watch and attend another game of footy!
Gulden tore us a new one and barely a comment about it today, most of the media focusses on Charlie throwing Cripps to the ground, Florent not shaking hands and allegations of spiteful behaviour.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: frostydog on March 06, 2026, 10:19:35 am
One thing i noticed last night is that Swans had 3 AFL coaches on game day. Cox, Goodwin and Cameron.
Where is the support for Voss? He has been set up to fail.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 06, 2026, 10:22:19 am
Paul im as change averse as anyone, but sometimes you have to acknowledge when your coach just doesnt have us on the right trajectory.
Quote
The Swans rammed home 12 goals to four, with the 75 points scored making it the equal third-greatest quarter in terms of points since 1999. It was the AFL's highest-scoring quarter since round six, 2011.
We have had a fairly solid upheaval, but we were without an answer to that and its just not good enough for even the worst side in the AFL.
He has time to fix it, but if you had 10 factors to weigh up when making considerations of Voss future this is one of them.
Like MBB says, lose to Richmond and Voss is well and truly in the gun.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: LP on March 06, 2026, 10:29:30 am
If you go back and watch the replay, you'll find Swans dobbing goals from on or outside the F50 arc, that's a night out and they were on a high.
In contrast we spent most of the first half working into a similar range and failed to score at all, so as I see it the problem wasn't the 3rd quarter, it was the non-scoring first half.
Even BigH refused to pull the trigger on shots from 50m and he can easily cover that distance, Gov ran through CHF and put the footy to the top of the square, we looked indecisive and hesitant, that's a headspace issue not a lack of capability.
Do we have a player who can kick out to the F50 arc, and be running past to receive a handball a split second later before the mark is even set? Because what Gulden did is going to be the new tactic under the current stand rule. A slow kick to advantage, then run your guts out to receive knowing the opposition can't approach that zone without giving away a 50m penalty. By midway through this season every club with runners capable of kicking from FB will be doing this, and to those of us exposed to Gaelic Footy it will seem familiar.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 06, 2026, 10:44:18 am
Paul im as change averse as anyone, but sometimes you have to acknowledge when your coach just doesnt have us on the right trajectory.
Quote
The Swans rammed home 12 goals to four, with the 75 points scored making it the equal third-greatest quarter in terms of points since 1999. It was the AFL's highest-scoring quarter since round six, 2011.
We have had a fairly solid upheaval, but we were without an answer to that and its just not good enough for even the worst side in the AFL.
He has time to fix it, but if you had 10 factors to weigh up when making considerations of Voss future this is one of them.
Like MBB says, lose to Richmond and Voss is well and truly in the gun.
One of the things that is really hurting him is these ridiculous runs other sides get on, often when we've fought hard to get to a comfortable lead. Sitting back as supporters we get four or five goals in front but it's become almost an expectation that the other side will get a run on and swamp us. The problem is it's not a new problem and even changing a third of the side has had no effect in overcoming it.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Baggers on March 06, 2026, 11:06:05 am
I don't get the doom and gloom. Too many 'throwing out the baby with bathwater' comments here at the mo.
Yes, a horrible 3rd qtr and yes, we didn't capitalize on our first half dominance.
This was the first game in real heat for our 'new' group, coaches included. Need to see the bigger picture and a perspective over weeks, not one game. The bottom line, we're a work in progress after so many changes - whereas the Fluffy Ducks are ready to challenge for a top 4 spot.
Vossy's first words in his media conference were that our intensity dropped in the 3rd and they dialled up their pressure. That's about mental toughness and discipline... issues that still remain. Our new coaches saw, first hand, that vulnerability - get to work, fellas.
The game plan is good, however last night we were a few blokes short on executing it well - Fogarty and Young in particular. An aging Saad has lost his effectiveness. Reidy aint ready for senior footy. They were our bottom four on the night.
Moir needs a breakout game - he's teasingly close. A concern.
We lacked a 'spark' player last night -- the Fluffy Ducks had Papley -- to capitalize on forward entries and bring serious emotion to the forward line - we were a flat forward bunch last night. For mine, our spark players are Frankie Evans and Talor Byrne. These two can also create something out of nothing. Ainsworth is an excellent addition. Kempy fumbled the fck out of the aggot at critical moments but will find his feet and confidence in time - there were enough promising signs.
Personally, I'd have H as the 2nd ruck, it brings him into the game and will raise his confidence. And Pitto has shown he's no slouch around goals.
And what the fck does going forward with humility, mean... (which I've heard us say)? What a crock of crap. There are wonderful and important places for humility... however going forward in a gladiatorial sport aint one of them. Humility can undermine boldness and even confidence. Be humble in victory, but not in game. Be bold, disciplined, focussed and ruthless in game.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 06, 2026, 11:06:33 am
Of no comfort at all is the fact that our best scoring quarter was the third. ::) We kicked 4 to their 12...16 for the quarter in total.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Baggers on March 06, 2026, 11:07:47 am
Paul im as change averse as anyone, but sometimes you have to acknowledge when your coach just doesnt have us on the right trajectory.
Leave aside supporter analysis for the minute. As far as the club is concerned, they need to : a. correctly identify where the problems lie b. make correct decisions based on correct analysis.
If it turns out that Voss is the or a problem, then fine. But I very much doubt it. The club (however abstractly or concretely you may wish to define that entity) has IMO, simply forgotten how to win. This is self evident and has played out across a variety of regimes, coaches, list managers, etc., and apart from some progress here and there, is still struggling to be like Hawthorn, Geelong etc. You can have all sorts of arguments about what comes first (winning or winning culture), you can have all sorts of arguments about coaches, players, list managers that you either love or hate etc., but until the club has that breakthrough moment, there will always be that element of doubt in the minds of players, coaches etc. That mental space is hard to pinpoint and hard to define, but very real IMO.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Baggers on March 06, 2026, 11:39:20 am
I sat behind the goals at ground level so btw that and the goons in front us standing up all the time, it was to “see” the game. My comments are As follows: - we controlled the game quite well in the first half - we transitioned the ball very well in the first half. - at about the 10 min mark of the 3rd, we looked out of petrol and fatigued. The mistakes started at that point. I thought it was going to be a tough assignment but a 12 goal to 4 3rd was as bad as I have seen from us. I dont know what we do at the 1/2 time break in the rooms with food and drink but its been a while that we come out in the 3rd looking they need a sleep because their bellies are full. Not a good start to 2027
You know, you raise an interesting point GTC old son. I also lift an eyebrow or two when I see the massive sugar and carb hits at half time. Seems to be a dietician playbook from decades ago.
The folks I know through my work rely on quality electrolytes during sustained exertion... high in magnesium, potassium and sodium - no sugar! As for white bread carbs... p1ss off! And some folks are okay on fruit, others not at all. And definitely no caffeine tablets - great way to dehydrate!!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ratlice on March 06, 2026, 12:11:00 pm
I'm now wondering which player(s) will be leaving at seasons end!!! 3 of our best left last year!!! Players of that calibre don't leave unless there is something drastically wrong at the club.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: laj on March 06, 2026, 12:38:53 pm
I'm now wondering which player(s) will be leaving at seasons end!!! 3 of our best left last year!!! Players of that calibre don't leave unless there is something drastically wrong at the club.
One did leave for alot of money.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: laj on March 06, 2026, 12:43:10 pm
I'm now wondering which player(s) will be leaving at seasons end!!! 3 of our best left last year!!! Players of that calibre don't leave unless there is something drastically wrong at the club.
Keep your powder dry, Cocko. Still plenty of 2026 remaining.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Professer E on March 06, 2026, 12:44:27 pm
Seen enough of Fogarty, doesn't do near enough, pass. Frank is a far more important and effective player, pity he is injured. Very tempted to play Byrne or Flynn, we need crumbing forwards that actually can, not blokes that clearly can't don't or won't. Oh, and Williams to never, ever go defensive side of centre again.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: laj on March 06, 2026, 12:44:55 pm
Paul im as change averse as anyone, but sometimes you have to acknowledge when your coach just doesnt have us on the right trajectory.
Leave aside supporter analysis for the minute. As far as the club is concerned, they need to : a. correctly identify where the problems lie b. make correct decisions based on correct analysis.
If it turns out that Voss is the or a problem, then fine. But I very much doubt it. The club (however abstractly or concretely you may wish to define that entity) has IMO, simply forgotten how to win. This is self evident and has played out across a variety of regimes, coaches, list managers, etc., and apart from some progress here and there, is still struggling to be like Hawthorn, Geelong etc. You can have all sorts of arguments about what comes first (winning or winning culture), you can have all sorts of arguments about coaches, players, list managers that you either love or hate etc., but until the club has that breakthrough moment, there will always be that element of doubt in the minds of players, coaches etc. That mental space is hard to pinpoint and hard to define, but very real IMO.
im not saying make the call now, but if it comes when it comes this continuation of trend will stand as one of the reasons why.
A little while ago, I mentioned downhill skiing would be an improvement. We got there at times, where we are gold provided we are on top.
Thay evolution needs to happen. I know that quarter was damaging for various reasons but the way the Swans piled on goals last night was typical of an issue identified back in covid years which cost teague his job.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Baggers on March 06, 2026, 01:24:26 pm
Paul im as change averse as anyone, but sometimes you have to acknowledge when your coach just doesnt have us on the right trajectory.
Leave aside supporter analysis for the minute. As far as the club is concerned, they need to : a. correctly identify where the problems lie b. make correct decisions based on correct analysis.
If it turns out that Voss is the or a problem, then fine. But I very much doubt it. The club (however abstractly or concretely you may wish to define that entity) has IMO, simply forgotten how to win. This is self evident and has played out across a variety of regimes, coaches, list managers, etc., and apart from some progress here and there, is still struggling to be like Hawthorn, Geelong etc. You can have all sorts of arguments about what comes first (winning or winning culture), you can have all sorts of arguments about coaches, players, list managers that you either love or hate etc., but until the club has that breakthrough moment, there will always be that element of doubt in the minds of players, coaches etc. That mental space is hard to pinpoint and hard to define, but very real IMO.
Sure is very real.
Why does our discipline, focus and intensity drop so dramatically when challenged? Why do we react (or simply drop our bundle) rather than respond? Why is our mental discipline and toughness so fickle? Do we collectively sulk when we're scored against? Is there an element of downhill skier in our culture?
Mentally tough individuals and teams love adversity, they love being challenged and tested. We seem to fear adversity and challenge. Mentally tough individuals and teams step into and confront fear(s), whereas also-rans seek ways to avoid fear(s).
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: PaulP on March 06, 2026, 01:28:52 pm
im not saying make the call now, but if it comes when it comes this continuation of trend will stand as one of the reasons why.
A little while ago, I mentioned downhill skiing would be an improvement. We got there at times, where we are gold provided we are on top.
Thay evolution needs to happen. I know that quarter was damaging for various reasons but the way the Swans piled on goals last night was typical of an issue identified back in covid years which cost teague his job.
I would suggest this issue precedes Teague by several years, and if that's true, I'd say the issues are deeper than the coach.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Baggers on March 06, 2026, 01:45:45 pm
...and another thing... how demoralizing it must be to dominate a half of footy with almost 30 inside 50s for a return of 4 goals!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: PaulP on March 06, 2026, 01:47:10 pm
Why does our discipline, focus and intensity drop so dramatically when challenged? Why do we react (or simply drop our bundle) rather than respond? Why is our mental discipline and toughness so fickle? Do we collectively sulk when we're scored against? Is there an element of downhill skier in our culture?
Mentally tough individuals and teams love adversity, they love being challenged and tested. We seem to fear adversity and challenge. Mentally tough individuals and teams step into and confront fear(s), whereas also-rans seek ways to avoid fear(s).
It's like the kid at school that always scores 50-60% on their math tests. After 10 exams where you just scrape through, your whole-of-body behaves accordingly. The way you feel about math, the way you prepare for exams, the way you behave in class, your expectations wrt marks etc. This is not just limited to not "liking" math, but can be observed in physical habits like the faces you pull, slouching in class etc. Breaking through to score very high marks can be done, but it's rare and requires a certain character.
None of our players, at least not in Carlton jumpers, have experienced much winning. They are all professional, they are all trying their hardest. They all want to win. But that little voice inside your head when things don't go your way is very familiar. You accept some wins, some floggings, some honorable losses, and mid table finishes because like the kid in math, your history precedes you.
All 18 teams are competing in a very limited space. Coaches and players are pulled from a limited pool, they all have the same cap, same budget, same list limitations etc. The margin for gaining an advantage over other cubs is miniscule.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 06, 2026, 01:48:05 pm
I went to the basketball at JC Arena and didnt watch the game live and have just watched the replay today and it was really a rinse and repeat of the previous Swans game and many other games from last season where we were competitive but poor forward line efficiency again cost us a decent half time lead. We had control around the contest but fiddled with the ball, bombed it and couldnt hit the hard kicks to our forwards. Once the Swans evened up the contested work in the middle the game swung and their better players took over. The lack of defensive pressure and ability to find a man when we were under pressure from their clearances was the same as previous years and it was a procession of goals. Cripps got frustrated and lost his cool and I think there has to be some talk of him relinquishing the captaincy as its affecting his game. We also have the same problem that our initial contested midfield group in Cripps, Hewett and Walsh are out of the game once we lose the clearance and the opposition players like Heeney, Gulden, Warner just run away with no pressure leaving our defense on the back foot hoping that entry pass wont hit the target but thats not going to happen with quality like what the Swans have running the ball in. Gulden and McInnerney had 24 scoring involvements between them...thats unacceptable as was the tackle count numbers but I guess if you cant catch the players you cant tackle them. Positives...Pittonet did a good job on Grundy and was handy down forward but any game where your normal non goal kicking ruckman is your best forward thats not a great indication of your forward line operating well. Smith and Dean......thought Smith won the ball well and showed he knew what he was doing but the extra pace of the game and quality of his opponents rushed his disposal and being a light body vs the hardened Swans players was a challenge but he was one of our better players imho. I thought Dean contested well and like his father didnt take a backward step and just needs the gametime and experience playing on senior players but I like what I saw and he will be a player. Walsh got plenty of ball but probably needs to get more out of his possessions so he hurts the opposition more with his kicking. re: Charlie looked like the pregame hype affected him, wasnt a factor and looked a bit subdued and thrown out by having to play against his old teammates. I wouldnt panic and start dropping players yet but the thing that concerned me more was the lack of leadership and resilience of the team when things got tough and if I was Voss Id be singling out my leaders and demanding more of them.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 06, 2026, 02:05:36 pm
Why does our discipline, focus and intensity drop so dramatically when challenged? Why do we react (or simply drop our bundle) rather than respond? Why is our mental discipline and toughness so fickle? Do we collectively sulk when we're scored against? Is there an element of downhill skier in our culture?
Mentally tough individuals and teams love adversity, they love being challenged and tested. We seem to fear adversity and challenge. Mentally tough individuals and teams step into and confront fear(s), whereas also-rans seek ways to avoid fear(s).
It's like the kid at school that always scores 50-60% on their math tests. After 10 exams where you just scrape through, your whole-of-body behaves accordingly. The way you feel about math, the way you prepare for exams, the way you behave in class, your expectations wrt marks etc. This is not just limited to not "liking" math, but can be observed in physical habits like the faces you pull, slouching in class etc. Breaking through to score very high marks can be done, but it's rare and requires a certain character.
None of our players, at least not in Carlton jumpers, have experienced much winning. They are all professional, they are all trying their hardest. They all want to win. But that little voice inside your head when things don't go your way is very familiar. You accept some wins, some floggings, some honorable losses, and mid table finishes because like the kid in math, your history precedes you.
All 18 teams are competing in a very limited space. Coaches and players are pulled from a limited pool, they all have the same cap, same budget, same list limitations etc. The margin for gaining an advantage over other cubs is miniscule.
That winners mentality is not about winning.
Its a mindset shift that's required. Its about belief, its about the people at the club instilling that belief. That belief is formed off structure, system, and style. We wont forge a winning mentality off nothing. I have played in different teams my whole life. Some that got beaten, badly. Others that won and won well.
We tend to drag players into the mire with us even when they come from external. They come to us and lose the will to win. The key to unlocking what hurts our groups mindset resides there IMHO.
Im not laying this at the foot of any one coach, or a manager, but we have turned over all components of the club, and rightly or wrongly are forging new directions. If this trend persists into this season, then we can expect a few more dramatic changes at end of this season but it would start at the head coach and maybe the odd player that we wouldnt expect to be traded today, just to strengthen our hand into next year.
Who knows. All i know, is that i know nothing, and trust that the club will use evidence like last night to make decisions.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 06, 2026, 02:19:15 pm
I sat behind the goals at ground level so btw that and the goons in front us standing up all the time, it was to “see” the game. My comments are As follows: - we controlled the game quite well in the first half - we transitioned the ball very well in the first half. - at about the 10 min mark of the 3rd, we looked out of petrol and fatigued. The mistakes started at that point. I thought it was going to be a tough assignment but a 12 goal to 4 3rd was as bad as I have seen from us. I dont know what we do at the 1/2 time break in the rooms with food and drink but its been a while that we come out in the 3rd looking they need a sleep because their bellies are full. Not a good start to 2027
You know, you raise an interesting point GTC old son. I also lift an eyebrow or two when I see the massive sugar and carb hits at half time. Seems to be a dietician playbook from decades ago.
The folks I know through my work rely on quality electrolytes during sustained exertion... high in magnesium, potassium and sodium - no sugar! As for white bread carbs... p1ss off! And some folks are okay on fruit, others not at all. And definitely no caffeine tablets - great way to dehydrate!!
something aint right about how we perform in 3rd qtrs Baggers.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 06, 2026, 02:20:02 pm
Follow the process and get IT right and the scoreboard takes car of it self.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 06, 2026, 02:59:59 pm
im not saying make the call now, but if it comes when it comes this continuation of trend will stand as one of the reasons why.
A little while ago, I mentioned downhill skiing would be an improvement. We got there at times, where we are gold provided we are on top.
Thay evolution needs to happen. I know that quarter was damaging for various reasons but the way the Swans piled on goals last night was typical of an issue identified back in covid years which cost teague his job.
I would suggest this issue precedes Teague by several years, and if that's true, I'd say the issues are deeper than the coach.
What do you think it is Paul? I'm not saying you're wrong, but just about the only common aspects of the team from days gone by... is Cripps. Coaches, list management, admin, players have all been turned over. Understandably a culture of struggle and losing can impact youngsters as they come into the side. I suspect Byrce Gibbs and Marc Murphy were introduced to a culture of struggle,loss and division. Is that's what's happened with our group...and if that's the case is that also affecting player retention.
Too many smiles at the end of the game last night, not just with Curnow. Fitness....we were done by just after half-time. Size and strength....we're carrying a few light youngsters (and a couple of oldies) at the moment. That will improve but a large part of our list are a few years away from that maturity. And chief of all...the inability of coaches and on-field leaders to stem that run of goals in the third term.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ratlice on March 06, 2026, 03:14:39 pm
I would suggest this issue precedes Teague by several years, and if that's true, I'd say the issues are deeper than the coach.
What do you think it is Paul? I'm not saying you're wrong, but just about the only common aspects of the team from days gone by... is Cripps. Coaches, list management, admin, players have all been turned over. Understandably a culture of struggle and losing can impact youngsters as they come into the side. I suspect Byrce Gibbs and Marc Murphy were introduced to a culture of struggle,loss and division. Is that's what's happened with our group...and if that's the case is that also affecting player retention.
Too many smiles at the end of the game last night, not just with Curnow. Fitness....we were done by just after half-time. Size and strength....we're carrying a few light youngsters (and a couple of oldies) at the moment. That will improve but a large part of our list are a few years away from that maturity. And chief of all...the inability of coaches and on-field leaders to stem that run of goals in the third term.
How many more years are we going to see this crap.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 06, 2026, 03:19:05 pm
Alistar Clarkson recently came out and said how to tough it is to drag a struggling team off the deck and how bottoming out will be a think of the past: Interesting comments on StKilda: "The game is as tough as it has ever been. You only need to go to Essendon, Richmond, West Coast, North Melbourne, a couple of others perhaps to see that. You see what's happened with St Kilda, it's nearly like you've got to do something absolutely out of the box radical to break this mould of getting yourself out of the bottom eight or 10 sides in the competition and give yourself a chance to get into the top part. https://www.afl.com.au/news/1471514/whats-realistic-in-a-rebuild-why-north-melbourne-kangaroos-coach-alastair-clarkson-says-bottoming-out-will-never-happen-again
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: PaulP on March 06, 2026, 03:31:00 pm
What do you think it is Paul? I'm not saying your wrong, but just about the only common aspects of the team from days gone by... is Cripps. Coaches, list management, admin, players have all been turned over. Understandably a culture of struggle and losing can impact youngsters as they come into the side. I suspect Byrce Gibbs and Marc Murphy were introduced to a culture of struggle,loss and division. Is that's what's happened with our group...and if that's the case is that also affecting player retention..................................................
My best guess is three reasons : 1. players passing the vibes from one generation to the next 2. general knowledge in the public domain about our recent history and several semi successful / unsuccessful attempts to re-establish ourselves as a club that wins consistently. There does not need to be direct contact between generations of Board, coaches, players etc. The history can come to you in various ways. 3. The actual lived experience of losing more games than winning.
Based on this theory, there is some validity to the idea that some on here had suggested during the rebuild years, that we should have sacked the entire club at the time - all Board, all players, coaches, fitness, everybody, and started with a real Tabula Rasa. That would at least substantively take care of points 1 and 3.
The turnaround will undoubtedly come. Whether it's next week or after we're all dead, no one can say.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzWJWUTySZM
I like this clip. It's only 4 minutes or so, but after the 2 minute mark Riewoldt gives a tiny insight into what I'd guess our players experience.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: PaulP on March 06, 2026, 06:00:53 pm
Yes I thought similar. Hopefully the news outlets in question checked and verified that it's legit, and not something like AI.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: bricky on March 06, 2026, 06:52:06 pm
https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/that-s-not-true-magpie-coach-dismisses-rumours-on-two-fronts-20260306-p5o827.html Docherty told this masthead he stood by the views he expressed on the podcast, but had not intended for the language he used to be public.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 06, 2026, 06:53:33 pm
So from the sound of it (and many have alluded to it over the years) here's what I got from Docherty's comments
While we can apply pressure we can control the game. But we can't sustain it for 4 quarters. It's a high intensity effort that requires a physically draining style of play. It's the arrow in our quiver. And when it slackens off, we get run over because we don't have a second arrow. A different arrow. No plan B. Defence is not solely to blame because the ball coming into the opposition forward line comes in like a Tsunami. The midfielders tire and are swamped. It's exacerbated by the poor delivery into the forward line where turnovers contribute to the pressure on the backs.
So in the end it comes down to the fact that we play a style of play that is not sustainable at our current levels of fitness (and in the case of youngsters... maturity.) It may be it's a style that is impossible to sustain.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: PaulP on March 06, 2026, 07:05:22 pm
I would have been interested in hearing Docherty's thoughts on how this could be remedied.
As an aside, I infer from his later clarification that Gorringe aired the message on his phone without a clearance from Doc. Poor form if I'm right.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 06, 2026, 07:10:26 pm
Doc's comments will be seen by some as a 'disgruntled employee'. Others will be saying he's spot on. Whichever view you take, this is getting plenty of 'air' across the various AFL social media..not just the Carlton ones. If Voss was under pressure after the game last night... it's gone up a couple of levels.
@Paul...I don't think Gorringe is a Voss fan...and he's a bit of a loose canon. I don't think he'd be reluctant to share.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: PaulP on March 06, 2026, 07:20:35 pm
............................................ @Paul...I don't think Gorringe is a Voss fan...and he's a bit of a loose canon. I don't think he'd be reluctant to share.
No doubt.
I have for a while been quite skeptical about this idea of a "taxing" game plan. As far as I can tell, AFL is taxing no matter how you play. I would have thought that all game plans are taxing. All players look pretty spent when they come off the ground. Unless you can magically engineer a perfect long kicking game with elite marking from end to end, you will be doing a lot of running playing any other way.
The Swans laid 67 tackles. How is that not taxing ? IMO, the math ain't mathin'.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 06, 2026, 07:46:19 pm
Nothing new in Sam's analysis imo, everyone knows if you can match us in the contested stuff even trailing at half time then you will get your chance to run us off our feet and control the game .It's the same old game plan with a few quicker players sprinkled on the outside as David King alluded to on SEN...
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: PaulP on March 06, 2026, 07:47:02 pm
We won the contested possession by 17, lost the clearances by 1. Even more confused than I was earlier.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: MickyO on March 06, 2026, 08:18:08 pm
Not a fan of what Dan replayed nor what Doc said. Stinks of laying into the coach which is unhelpful at this stage. Makes Doc seem disgruntled imo and yea Dan is good mates with those that left last year.
Not cool.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: MickyO on March 06, 2026, 08:20:05 pm
Aside from that - absolutely love H Dean. Something about him. Jagga is a super star in the making but Dean has that bit of mongrel we have Missed!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 06, 2026, 09:27:29 pm
Mr Simpson is there...I'm sure he'll have some feedback ;)
Simmo has made it clear that's really not his game day role, plus, he's only there once a week.
Including part timer Simpson.....and Boak....there was an extra couple of coaches added from last year to this year. Can't remember them all, i think Josh Fraser returned as well.
To lay the blame at Voss' feet when there is 12 blokes who have just sat through their first game together is not fair. I doubt Voss got to choose them, but they absolutely have a large say in if he gets to keep his job.
I said in the pre-game that i thought we were a sneaky chance to win.....but could also lose by 80 points. The logic was this, Round 0, we are an unknown. 1/4 of the team was new, new coaches, new gameplan, new new new. We 'should' get the jump on the swans. How we fair once they work out what we are doing, well, thats the unknown part. True to my prophecy, we did get the jump on the swans and did quite well. However, it didn't take the swans long to work out what to do and they absolutely nailed it to the point that their 3rd quarter, outscored our full 4.
Hopefully the extended brains trust learn from that. Hopefully our MC learn from that too. There'd be a few nervous players at training this week.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 06, 2026, 09:28:47 pm
Not a fan of what Dan replayed nor what Doc said. Stinks of laying into the coach which is unhelpful at this stage. Makes Doc seem disgruntled imo and yea Dan is good mates with those that left last year.
Not cool.
Nothing wrong with Dan if you realise he is essentially just a well connected fan. He goes through the ups and downs just like we do. He has the same passion just like we do. He can call on some well credentialled mates.......and thats the only difference to your average supporter.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 06, 2026, 09:34:30 pm
He's a player I have a bit of hope in. He turns 21 in couple of weeks,so he's still very young. He wasn't our worst by any stretch, but once the pressure came on he was pretty much overwhelmed. The intensity of that period was so much greater than the practice matches and Lord struggled a bit with the speed of the game.
Lord can't handball effectivly in close. I saw it last year and again last night. A combination of strength and technique and he plays along side the best in the business.
As bb points out his disposals became rushed and inaccurate as the pressure increased. Now as I see it, Lord's plays a bit of a role as a defensive midfielder. He's one of the very few of our mids with a strong defensive side to his game. Exactly what we needed when the Swans midfield started to cut us up. And therein lies one of our problems...we don't have many.
An interesting stat that perhaps reflects the difference between a practice game and a real game is this one. Lord had 13 tackles against Geelong in the practice game. Last night he had 0
I was canned for suggesting Lord was sub-par in that Geelong match. His 'saving grace' was his tackle count.
Well after last nights efforts, including his zero tackles, nothing has changed on my end......but it appears some others have seen the same. Disposal is average. Panics under pressure. Without his tackles, whats he got?
Now as i said last week, i've got nothing against the kid and hope he comes on.....but if we get a few players back and a few kids step up, he's the one in the gun.
Do you pick him or Cerra? Cerra. If Cottrell and Acres is fit, do we allow Jagga/Walsh more midfield time.....who would get less? Williams in the midfield performed very well early, 5 clearances to half time. What if Ben Camporeale comes on.....he might also force Lord out.
Whichever way you look at it, currently, Lord is the weakest link in a pretty stacked midfield. I wouldn't want to be having anymore 0 tackle games if i was him.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 06, 2026, 10:09:07 pm
Voss in his presser said he is confident the game plan will stand up as it did in the pre season games.
Surely he doesnt believe what he said there. both Geelong and Brisbane play pre season games with the least concern regarding intensity and purely use them as management games to get minutes into their players. to judge a system in that sort of game is pointless.
Putting cripps forward to start the second against a midfield of heeney warner guiden is asking for trouble and then to just sit idle without a single tactic to slow things down when the ball was streaming out of the middle is bewildering.
Why not try a hard shutdown role on Guiden when he was cutting us up. We just let him continue on his merry way.
Voss has a new group of assistants this year including a premiership coach to help him yet first game of the year and our opponent scores the 3rd highest quarter score telly in the history of the game and all without a single strong tactical move to try and halt it.
Nope hes not the man that should be leading us and when we sack him cause its a matter of when not if, he will never be a senior coach again.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 06, 2026, 10:41:34 pm
Voss in his presser said he is confident the game plan will stand up as it did in the pre season games.
Surely he doesnt believe what he said there. both Geelong and Brisbane play pre season games with the least concern regarding intensity and purely use them as management games to get minutes into their players. to judge a system in that sort of game is pointless.
Putting cripps forward to start the second against a midfield of heeney warner guiden is asking for trouble and then to just sit idle without a single tactic to slow things down when the ball was streaming out of the middle is bewildering.
Why not try a hard shutdown role on Guiden when he was cutting us up. We just let him continue on his merry way.
Voss has a new group of assistants this year including a premiership coach to help him yet first game of the year and our opponent scores the 3rd highest quarter score telly in the history of the game and all without a single strong tactical move to try and halt it.
Nope hes not the man that should be leading us and when we sack him cause its a matter of when not if, he will never be a senior coach again.
Yep, you can't go by pre season games and it's hard to change the game plan when your main midfield group are the players who lack the mobility to contain the opposition spread and get exploited the further the game goes.. You watch Gold Coast and their mids are contested types but who also have pace and I think this is where we need to recruit some new blood..
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 06, 2026, 10:45:31 pm
Voss in his presser said he is confident the game plan will stand up as it did in the pre season games.
Surely he doesnt believe what he said there. both Geelong and Brisbane play pre season games with the least concern regarding intensity and purely use them as management games to get minutes into their players. to judge a system in that sort of game is pointless.
Putting cripps forward to start the second against a midfield of heeney warner guiden is asking for trouble and then to just sit idle without a single tactic to slow things down when the ball was streaming out of the middle is bewildering.
Why not try a hard shutdown role on Guiden when he was cutting us up. We just let him continue on his merry way.
Voss has a new group of assistants this year including a premiership coach to help him yet first game of the year and our opponent scores the 3rd highest quarter score telly in the history of the game and all without a single strong tactical move to try and halt it.
Nope hes not the man that should be leading us and when we sack him cause its a matter of when not if, he will never be a senior coach again.
Yep, you can't go by pre season games and it's hard to change the game plan when your main midfield group are the players who lack the mobility to contain the opposition spread and get exploited the further the game goes.. You watch Gold Coast and their mids are contested types but who also have pace and I think this is where we need to recruit some new blood..
yes agree we have no line breakers apart from walsh. All one paced and as doc said once the game is no longer a contested affair and the ball is out in the open we have little answer. i dont know much about young walker but hopefully he has wheels.
the frustrating part as a fan is knowing when the game is turning nothing happens from the coaching box to make you think ok out coach is aware of it and pulling levers. he sits watches and does nothing
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 06, 2026, 10:45:35 pm
He's a player I have a bit of hope in. He turns 21 in couple of weeks,so he's still very young. He wasn't our worst by any stretch, but once the pressure came on he was pretty much overwhelmed. The intensity of that period was so much greater than the practice matches and Lord struggled a bit with the speed of the game.
As bb points out his disposals became rushed and inaccurate as the pressure increased. Now as I see it, Lord's plays a bit of a role as a defensive midfielder. He's one of the very few of our mids with a strong defensive side to his game. Exactly what we needed when the Swans midfield started to cut us up. And therein lies one of our problems...we don't have many.
An interesting stat that perhaps reflects the difference between a practice game and a real game is this one. Lord had 13 tackles against Geelong in the practice game. Last night he had 0
I was canned for suggesting Lord was sub-par in that Geelong match. His 'saving grace' was his tackle count.
Well after last nights efforts, including his zero tackles, nothing has changed on my end......but it appears some others have seen the same. Disposal is average. Panics under pressure. Without his tackles, whats he got?
Now as i said last week, i've got nothing against the kid and hope he comes on.....but if we get a few players back and a few kids step up, he's the one in the gun.
Do you pick him or Cerra? Cerra. If Cottrell and Acres is fit, do we allow Jagga/Walsh more midfield time.....who would get less? Williams in the midfield performed very well early, 5 clearances to half time. What if Ben Camporeale comes on.....he might also force Lord out.
Whichever way you look at it, currently, Lord is the weakest link in a pretty stacked midfield. I wouldn't want to be having anymore 0 tackle games if i was him.
It's like looking in a mirror :D Turns 21 in 3 weeks. Lord is one of the least of our problems.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 07, 2026, 10:28:10 am
I use stats to back my argumwnt, not form my argument.
Get the ball in the hands of both and Jagga and Lord and out your life on the line of them finding a teammate. 99% will pick jagga. The 1% who pick lord will not know who Jagga is or be related to Lord. ;)
Im not on a witch hunt. Elijah was by far the worst user of the ball, lord may have been next
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 07, 2026, 10:55:02 am
Captain didnt exactly cover himself in glory either.
Cripps is starting to become our greatest weakness in the midfield.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 07, 2026, 10:56:08 am
I would have been interested in hearing Docherty's thoughts on how this could be remedied.
As an aside, I infer from his later clarification that Gorringe aired the message on his phone without a clearance from Doc. Poor form if I'm right.
I think its pretty clear isnt it? Pretty much everything Doc spoke about was coaching based. No plan B. Game plan is Taxing. Can't change when the game opens up and when it does we get smashed.
Been the same thing since Voss arrived. Won 2 finals by the skin of our teeth apart from that havent been close. Not sure Voss is capable of more then what we have seen.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 07, 2026, 12:21:54 pm
I use stats to back my argumwnt, not form my argument.
Get the ball in the hands of both and Jagga and Lord and out your life on the line of them finding a teammate. 99% will pick jagga. The 1% who pick lord will not know who Jagga is or be related to Lord. ;)
Im not on a witch hunt. Elijah was by far the worst user of the ball, lord may have been next
Nah You've got a set on him for some reason. ;) :D We've had our differences over the summer. I mentioned at one stage I thought Lord and Wilson would be players that improved this year. You seem to have taken an opposite view for both of them.. Have a look at our B& F voting for this game. Lord features. You'll give these guys a a serve when they do do something poorly and ignore them when they do something well. Prove me wrong. ;)
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 07, 2026, 12:43:04 pm
I like Lord because he plays both ways and will try negate his opponent as well as win his own ball. If you are free wheeling mid who doesn't bother what your opponent is doing then you need to be 30 plus in possessions and have high numbers in scoring involvements, goal assists and low turn overs.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 07, 2026, 12:44:41 pm
I use stats to back my argumwnt, not form my argument.
Get the ball in the hands of both and Jagga and Lord and out your life on the line of them finding a teammate. 99% will pick jagga. The 1% who pick lord will not know who Jagga is or be related to Lord. ;)
Im not on a witch hunt. Elijah was by far the worst user of the ball, lord may have been next
Nah You've got a set on him for some reason. ;) :D We've had our differences over the summer. I mentioned at one stage I thought Lord and Wilson would be players that improved this year. You seem to have taken an opposite view for both of them.. Have a look at our B& F voting for this game. Lord features. You'll give these guys a a serve when they do do something poorly and ignore them when they do something well. Prove me wrong. ;)
Answer me this. Has he improved in his last 2 seasons?
He's still the tough nut. He's still going to give you his all. His minutes has improved due to personnel and circumstances, but has he?
You say i have something against him (and Wilson). I say you have navy blue glasses on when viewing them.
I had similar conversations about Jaxon Binns last year and was told the same thing. Remind me how he is going this year? :-[
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 07, 2026, 01:04:50 pm
Nah You've got a set on him for some reason. ;) :D We've had our differences over the summer. I mentioned at one stage I thought Lord and Wilson would be players that improved this year. You seem to have taken an opposite view for both of them.. Have a look at our B& F voting for this game. Lord features. You'll give these guys a a serve when they do do something poorly and ignore them when they do something well. Prove me wrong. ;)
Answer me this. Has he improved in his last 2 seasons?
He's still the tough nut. He's still going to give you his all. His minutes has improved due to personnel and circumstances, but has he?
You say i have something against him (and Wilson). I say you have navy blue glasses on when viewing them.
I had similar conversations about Jaxon Binns last year and was told the same thing. Remind me how he is going this year? :-[
The kids are 20 kruds. You would have had Kade Simpson and Bruce Doull off to the knackery at similar stages of their careers. To answer your question...yep, both are improving. I'd have Wilson before Saad, and Lord before Acres and Cerra too. They are too unreliable in terms of lasting a game at the moment.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: PaulP on March 07, 2026, 01:38:19 pm
i read a few quotes from Chad Warner saying that Sydney went in with a specific plan of exploiting "our lack of outside run." I'd be curious to know why it took nearly 2.5 quarters to put this plan into effect.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 07, 2026, 01:45:45 pm
i read a few quotes from Chad Warner saying that Sydney went in with a specific plan of exploiting "our lack of outside run." I'd be curious to know why it took nearly 2.5 quarters to put this plan into effect.
There's a theory going around that they paced themselves in the first half and held a bit in reserve absorbing the best we could throw at them. It was curious how they held Papley back. The commentators seem to know the minute he would be injected into the game. We tired noticeably in the third term and they ran over us. It seemed to align pretty much with Docherty's comments about how we play.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 07, 2026, 01:54:08 pm
Answer me this. Has he improved in his last 2 seasons?
He's still the tough nut. He's still going to give you his all. His minutes has improved due to personnel and circumstances, but has he?
You say i have something against him (and Wilson). I say you have navy blue glasses on when viewing them.
I had similar conversations about Jaxon Binns last year and was told the same thing. Remind me how he is going this year? :-[
The kids are 20 kruds. You would have had Kade Simpson and Bruce Doull off to the knackery at similar stages of their careers. To answer your question...yep, both are improving. I'd have Wilson before Saad, and Lord before Acres and Cerra too. They are too unreliable in terms of lasting a game at the moment.
There is the navy blue glasses i speak of.
Cerra.... 2020, 2021, 2022 - best 22 under 22 2020-2023, 2025 - top 10 B+F (2024 - 4-5 hamstrings) 2020, 2025 - top 3 in B+F
FYI, in 2020, Cerra was 20.
Lord.... *crickets*
Lord was 20 in 2025.
Again, i've got nothing against him, not everyone will be superstars. I just think he needs to lift his game.....and zero tackles and poor disposal will not endear him to the MC.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: PaulP on March 07, 2026, 01:58:24 pm
There's a theory going around that they paced themselves in the first half and held a bit in reserve absorbing the best we could throw at them. It was curious how they held Papley back. The commentators seem to know the minute he would be injected into the game. We tired noticeably in the third term and they ran over us. It seemed to align pretty much with Docherty's comments about how we play.
Seems like a very cocky and very risky strategy, but anyway, good luck to 'em.......
Still not sure if the problem is pace, fitness or planning/structure. The first implicates recruiting, the second fitness/development staff, and the third coaching.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 07, 2026, 02:17:31 pm
Cerra.... 2020, 2021, 2022 - best 22 under 22 2020-2023, 2025 - top 10 B+F (2024 - 4-5 hamstrings) 2020, 2025 - top 3 in B+F
FYI, in 2020, Cerra was 20.
Lord.... *crickets*
Lord was 20 in 2025.
Again, i've got nothing against him, not everyone will be superstars. I just think he needs to lift his game.....and zero tackles and poor disposal will not endear him to the MC.
The problem is you seem to want them all to be superstars. It ain't happening.
If Lord was given a job to do on a Sydney player and didn't do it, he may be in strife, otherwise he'll back up again next week.
FYI he had career high disposals and inside 50s on Thursday night...so yep..he's on the improve.
Lord ahead of Cerra??? Not in terms of ability but certainly in terms of reliability...which is what I stated.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 07, 2026, 02:24:40 pm
i read a few quotes from Chad Warner saying that Sydney went in with a specific plan of exploiting "our lack of outside run." I'd be curious to know why it took nearly 2.5 quarters to put this plan into effect.
There's a theory going around that they paced themselves in the first half and held a bit in reserve absorbing the best we could throw at them. It was curious how they held Papley back. The commentators seem to know the minute he would be injected into the game. We tired noticeably in the third term and they ran over us. It seemed to align pretty much with Docherty's comments about how we play.
It was the number of interchanges the Swans wanted to make...they only made 23 in the first half and then made 52 after half time to wear us down with fresh players. It was excellent coaching so Im not convinced Cox had anything to do with it, maybe Goodwin who was praised for his rotation management in 2021 when they won the premiership. Unfortunately we dont have the innovation or nous in the coaches box imo to be over inventive which you need to be at times to give you an edge..
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 07, 2026, 02:35:22 pm
Cerra.... 2020, 2021, 2022 - best 22 under 22 2020-2023, 2025 - top 10 B+F (2024 - 4-5 hamstrings) 2020, 2025 - top 3 in B+F
FYI, in 2020, Cerra was 20.
Lord.... *crickets*
Lord was 20 in 2025.
Again, i've got nothing against him, not everyone will be superstars. I just think he needs to lift his game.....and zero tackles and poor disposal will not endear him to the MC.
The problem is you seem to want them all to be superstars. It ain't happening.
If Lord was given a job to do on a Sydney player and didn't do it, he may be in strife, otherwise he'll back up again next week.
FYI he had career high disposals and inside 50s on Thursday night...so yep..he's on the improve.
Sure, career highs in those areas, because Cerra wasn't there and he has increased minutes. I'm not fussed about that, i'm watching what he is doing with it.
You put his numbers against Jagga.....watch the difference with ball in hand between those 2 and you'll see why those numbers are not the same like you make them out to be.
For the 423rd time, i'm not expecting him to be a superstar or be as good as any other individual. Just pointing out that he would not be as safe as you make out (long term).
Years gone by Adam Bentick was getting 30+ touches in a game. Averages 5 tackles in his career, up to 6 in his last couple years. Ratten handed him the #7 as a bright young talent. But.....he was largely average. Not great by foot. Deemed not good enough. 2 years after he got the #7 handed to him, he was delisted. I don't see anything in Lord that Bentick didn't have.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 07, 2026, 02:36:59 pm
Cerra.... 2020, 2021, 2022 - best 22 under 22 2020-2023, 2025 - top 10 B+F (2024 - 4-5 hamstrings) 2020, 2025 - top 3 in B+F
FYI, in 2020, Cerra was 20.
Lord.... *crickets*
Lord was 20 in 2025.
Again, i've got nothing against him, not everyone will be superstars. I just think he needs to lift his game.....and zero tackles and poor disposal will not endear him to the MC.
The problem is you seem to want them all to be superstars. It ain't happening.
If Lord was given a job to do on a Sydney player and didn't do it, he may be in strife, otherwise he'll back up again next week.
FYI he had career high disposals and inside 50s on Thursday night...so yep..he's on the improve.
Its not what Lord was doing imo its what his opponents were doing and that applies to Cripps, Hewett, Walsh and Smith as a collective. The collective got fried after halftime and the reality is the Swans have their superstars in the middle of the ground and you have to have the quality to match them and we dont because our mids cant defend. You look at Gold Coast and we will have similar problems with Anderson, Rowell, Miller, and now Petracca, its going to be more of the same as what we faced with the Swans, we need more two way players in the middle, those first three GC players rack up the possies but also can defend and rack up the tackle numbers and are quality users/finishers. The Cripps, Hewett, Walsh one way contested only setup isnt going to deliver consistent results and will fail vs quality two way players. Lord is a two way player but isnt at the same level as those I have discussed but he is a good B grade player who does his job but he isnt there to compete vs Heeney, Warner, Anderson, Rowell etc thats Cripps, Hewett, Walsh and then Smith/Walker down the track...
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: laj on March 07, 2026, 02:51:18 pm
Not a fan of what Dan replayed nor what Doc said. Stinks of laying into the coach which is unhelpful at this stage. Makes Doc seem disgruntled imo and yea Dan is good mates with those that left last year.
Not cool.
I'm happy to hear it. We complain when we get cliche crap so when we hear something straight up like this we can't complain. Don't worry about shooting the messenger, what about the message. Nothing we didn't know but interesting hearing it from someone inside. Guessing he thought that wasn't going to go to air so expressed his view as you do between two mates.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: LP on March 07, 2026, 02:54:57 pm
So Lord is the new whipping for no good reason?
In reality Lord is not really opposed to the likes of Heeney or Warner, and to suggest he's got to be in the same league to avoid a verbal barrage is a tad unrealistic.
Our problem remains ball use, has been for several seasons. It's easy to focus on the B-Graders, but our very best are never going to keep up when they turn it over and it's no use our best pointing fingers when they give off hospital passes and / or miss targets by hand and foot.
We basically run ourselves into the ground in the first half trying to fix up our own errors, our skills are deplorable, and the opposition know if they force us into a long enough chain of disposal we'll fork it up. Because of our team's average lack of pace, we actually have to be better skilled than the opposition not just on a par, in reality we are sub-par.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 07, 2026, 03:01:46 pm
Not in terms of ability but certainly in terms of reliability...which is what I stated.
Cerra had 1 bad year with injury. Otherwise he was reliably in the top 10 B+F......which Lord has never reached.
What reliability are you referring to exactly?
He got through 2025 pretty unscathed. But had 5 hamstring injuries in a 12 month period prior to that. Out again now with a hamstring. Is that issue solved or ongoing. Will he be straight back in or have to spend some time in the VFL.
Just on Jagga...he was good, but there were times that he was also guilty of some rushed and scrappy disposal and easily brushed aside.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: laj on March 07, 2026, 03:03:12 pm
I would have been interested in hearing Docherty's thoughts on how this could be remedied.
As an aside, I infer from his later clarification that Gorringe aired the message on his phone without a clearance from Doc. Poor form if I'm right.
I think its pretty clear isnt it? Pretty much everything Doc spoke about was coaching based. No plan B. Game plan is Taxing. Can't change when the game opens up and when it does we get smashed.
Been the same thing since Voss arrived. Won 2 finals by the skin of our teeth apart from that havent been close. Not sure Voss is capable of more then what we have seen.
He's not. First year was good, but we always perform first year for a coach. Since then, bar a 14 weeks purple patch in the 2nd half of 2023 (after we were bottom 4 until then), he has struggled. The game has changed further since 2023, quickened up. Voss seems to have no idea how to evolve as the game evolves. If we don't pull the pin soon we could be on yet another wasted season. No good kicking the opposition for half a game then dying badly on our @rse. Can't believe we were 22pts up then 15 min later 6 goals behind.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: laj on March 07, 2026, 03:04:50 pm
Cerra had 1 bad year with injury. Otherwise he was reliably in the top 10 B+F......which Lord has never reached.
What reliability are you referring to exactly?
He got through 2025 pretty unscathed. But had 5 hamstring injuries in a 12 month period prior to that. Out again now with a hamstring. Is that issue solved or ongoing. Will he be straight back in or have to spend some time in the VFL.
Just on Jagga...he was good, but there were times that he was also guilty of some rushed and scrappy disposal and easily brushed aside.
In Jagga's case, a few nerves probably kicked in, hence the rushed disposal. That'll soon change.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: LP on March 07, 2026, 03:08:59 pm
In Jagga's case, a few nerves probably kicked in, hence the rushed disposal. That'll soon change.
A 27 disposal first game, not a bad effort for a kid.
For perspective, Gulden was almost through his full second season before he cracked 27+ disposals.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 07, 2026, 03:17:59 pm
Jagga had a good debut no doubt. He will improve even more with experience and maturity and the kid will probably end up a champion but they're young guys him and Lord...and another two or three years could make a big difference to both of them. Lord may never be anything but a good footsoldier. I'll back him to at least reach that level...and that may be all we need him to be. We have many premiership players who were good footsoldiers.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 07, 2026, 03:50:46 pm
He got through 2025 pretty unscathed. But had 5 hamstring injuries in a 12 month period prior to that. Out again now with a hamstring. Is that issue solved or ongoing. Will he be straight back in or have to spend some time in the VFL.
Just on Jagga...he was good, but there were times that he was also guilty of some rushed and scrappy disposal and easily brushed aside.
In Jagga's case, a few nerves probably kicked in, hence the rushed disposal. That'll soon change.
He had 6 turnovers but thats very forgivable in your 1st full real game and as you say they were rushed kicks due to nerves and some quality opposition who were hunting our players after half time and his comrade senior players and leaders were giving us nothing but donuts during the onslaught so he was on his own and must have wondered what he got himself into. He is a light bodied player too and was brushed aside at times and thats going to take a couple of preseasons to remedy and probably why his mate Sam Lalor was picked at No 1 because he was a readymade.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 07, 2026, 03:59:00 pm
We can talk about these guys until the cows come home, but our issues lie with the following players.
Kemp Young McKay Saad Mcgovern Fogarty In this game cripps Reidy Williams
Reidy is the only one finding his feet at the level. The rest gave us an average performance at best.
You simply wont win many games when these guys are not among your better performers week in and week out. Why? Well, its simply a demographic thing.
Chesser i thought was rubbish in his first hit out with us, but he too but he's got some time up his sleeve.
The others we arent getting enough from as senior players. Haynes (injured), Newman (injuries), acres, cotters. Its fine to have older blokes around but you cant get average from the top end of your list.
We are focussing on our 20 year old second and third year players but the reality is its not them letting us down.
Sure be negative about Wilson. Lord (who still racked up a bigger fantasy football score than 3/4 of the team on Thursday) because they arent much better than bentick, but i reckon its the lack of reliable footballers on our list that hurt us.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: rocky on March 07, 2026, 04:24:17 pm
We can talk about these guys until the cows come home, but our issues lie with the following players.
Kemp Young McKay Saad Mcgovern Fogarty In this game cripps Reidy Williams
Yep, trying to do new things with older blokes with bad habits and ignoring the future of the club with promising younguns is just silly... conservative, risk-averse selections.
I disagree with you on H and Kemp. One game is too little a sample size to judge them, yet. Before Kemp did his achilles he was finally beginning to deliver on potential. I still wonder if his best position might not be inside mid. He's strong and quick.
H is a confidence player and will take time. But he'd better get a wriggle on.
Don't know what to do with Williams, to be honest.
I hope Crippa answers his critics. Against the Fluffy Ducks, our midfield was slow, way too slow and taken apart in the 2nd half.
Young, Saad, McGovern and Fogarty are not the future.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: LP on March 07, 2026, 05:04:48 pm
I disagree with you on H and Kemp. One game is too little a sample size to judge them, yet. Before Kemp did his achilles he was finally beginning to deliver on potential. I still wonder if his best position might not be inside mid. He's strong and quick.
H is a confidence player and will take time. But he'd better get a wriggle on.
Don't know what to do with Williams, to be honest.
I thought our lot got to where the ball was plenty, but not one of them could go a one grab, Harry Dean embarrassed them with his clean handling of the footy.
Most of our blokes fumbled and bumbled like Mr Bean, and when you are a slower side(relative) that is a poison chalice because that second grab costs all your time and space and delivers extra time and space to the opposition to setup. It's only a step or two, but it makes a huge difference!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: shawny on March 07, 2026, 05:13:31 pm
I think its pretty clear isnt it? Pretty much everything Doc spoke about was coaching based. No plan B. Game plan is Taxing. Can't change when the game opens up and when it does we get smashed.
Been the same thing since Voss arrived. Won 2 finals by the skin of our teeth apart from that havent been close. Not sure Voss is capable of more then what we have seen.
He's not. First year was good, but we always perform first year for a coach. Since then, bar a 14 weeks purple patch in the 2nd half of 2023 (after we were bottom 4 until then), he has struggled. The game has changed further since 2023, quickened up. Voss seems to have no idea how to evolve as the game evolves. If we don't pull the pin soon we could be on yet another wasted season. No good kicking the opposition for half a game then dying badly on our @rse. Can't believe we were 22pts up then 15 min later 6 goals behind.
yep sad but true.
He will never get another coaching gig and will be gone by mid season bye imo.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Baggers on March 07, 2026, 05:26:23 pm
I disagree with you on H and Kemp. One game is too little a sample size to judge them, yet. Before Kemp did his achilles he was finally beginning to deliver on potential. I still wonder if his best position might not be inside mid. He's strong and quick.
H is a confidence player and will take time. But he'd better get a wriggle on.
Don't know what to do with Williams, to be honest.
I thought our lot got to where the ball was plenty, but not one of them could go a one grab, Harry Dean embarrassed them with his clean handling of the footy.
Most of our blokes fumbled and bumbled like Mr Bean, and when you are a slower side(relative) that is a poison chalice because that second grab costs all your time and space and delivers extra time and space to the opposition to setup. It's only a step or two, but it makes a huge difference!
H took 5 marks. And Weiters, Chesser and Florent took plenty of one grabbers. The delivery to H when up forward (and not running up the wings), was woeful. Cripps and Hewett were chief offenders re inside 50 delivery!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 07, 2026, 05:58:46 pm
We can talk about these guys until the cows come home, but our issues lie with the following players.
Kemp Young McKay Saad Mcgovern Fogarty In this game cripps Reidy Williams
Yep, trying to do new things with older blokes with bad habits and ignoring the future of the club with promising younguns is just silly... conservative, risk-averse selections.
I disagree with you on H and Kemp. One game is too little a sample size to judge them, yet. Before Kemp did his achilles he was finally beginning to deliver on potential. I still wonder if his best position might not be inside mid. He's strong and quick.
H is a confidence player and will take time. But he'd better get a wriggle on.
Don't know what to do with Williams, to be honest.
I hope Crippa answers his critics. Against the Fluffy Ducks, our midfield was slow, way too slow and taken apart in the 2nd half.
Young, Saad, McGovern and Fogarty are not the future.
I know why youre disagreeing with me about kemp and McKay, but these guys must lift if our season is going to kick on.
Its not that they were bad, or terrible, they just weren't what you need from the top end of your list. If you are in that equation, you need to be a top 5 to 10 performer every week.
Harry needs to lift and become a more imposing figure on games. Kemp too.
If they dont we will struggle, particularly if we concede a winning score in a quarter again.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: cookie2 on March 07, 2026, 06:04:03 pm
Wonder if they have his successor already lined up? 😇
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 07, 2026, 06:07:38 pm
He's not. First year was good, but we always perform first year for a coach. Since then, bar a 14 weeks purple patch in the 2nd half of 2023 (after we were bottom 4 until then), he has struggled. The game has changed further since 2023, quickened up. Voss seems to have no idea how to evolve as the game evolves. If we don't pull the pin soon we could be on yet another wasted season. No good kicking the opposition for half a game then dying badly on our @rse. Can't believe we were 22pts up then 15 min later 6 goals behind.
yep sad but true.
He will never get another coaching gig and will be gone by mid season bye imo.
That loss was squarely on the players (e.g. skipper was the prime offender), they went to water as soon as some pressure was applied. EOS.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 07, 2026, 06:17:33 pm
He will never get another coaching gig and will be gone by mid season bye imo.
That loss was squarely on the players (e.g. skipper was the prime offender), they went to water as soon as some pressure was applied. EOS.
I agree the loss was on the players and the skipper and senior players let the team down but we all know who the fall guy will be.FWIW I wouldn't have continued with Cripps as captain and made the change to Walsh when he got his forever contract...
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Adelaideblue on March 07, 2026, 06:43:08 pm
Thought Swans had done their homework on Ollie Hollands, working him over and often not allowing him to break free. Wasn't sure if he played the game on the backline, but if so he may be more effective playing back on the wing.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 07, 2026, 07:26:11 pm
Thought Swans had done their homework on Ollie Hollands, working him over and often not allowing him to break free. Wasn't sure if he played the game on the backline, but if so he may be more effective playing back on the wing.
Agree, thought we were out coached and the Swans planned well. Adding Goodwin to help Cox might be a good move providing he can concentrate on football and not get distracted. I have a preference for Ollie on the wing and he is a very honest performer.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Baggers on March 07, 2026, 07:56:29 pm
He will never get another coaching gig and will be gone by mid season bye imo.
That loss was squarely on the players (e.g. skipper was the prime offender), they went to water as soon as some pressure was applied. EOS.
Yes, it is on the players but it is also on the coaches.
IMHO no-one gets off free of accountability for that 2nd half 'effort.'
Vossy has entered his fifth year at the helm and yet we saw anothersecond half debacle... in fact, worse than many that preceded it over the years. Absolutely the same shambolic forward line and delivery into the forward line, even with different personnel!
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Macca37 on March 07, 2026, 08:25:13 pm
i have just got home after going to Sydney to see the game. I have read all the comments in this thread and my first comment is that I believe supporters are too quick in finding excuses for our team.
In the preliminary warmup about half an hour before the game, our players had no trouble kicking fifty metres or more towards the goal. I was impressed with Dean in the way he marked and passed the ball. There was no wind and conditions were perfect for football.
At half time I was happy with the way our players had applied pressure to the Swans causing them to make mistakes and restricting their scoring. Given the amount of time we had the ball in our forward line we should have been at least another two goals ahead.
The third quarter started, we kicked the first two goals, and then the wheels fell off. Grundy suddenly made our rucks look second rate, brought the Swans midfield into play, and we meekly capitulated. All the old faults surfaced: poor handballs, poor kicking to position, handballing and kicking to the Swans players. With so much self-imposed pressure and lack of discipline it was only matter of time before the Swans turned the game into a training run.
At three quarter time I didn't think things could get worse but they did. The last quarter was an embarrassment for Carlton supporters. The side lost structure and the Swans were able to attack in waves of three or more players from their backline all the way to their forward line without any resistance from our players. The Swans forward line was wide open with our backline players often 10 or fifteen metres away.
Early in the last quarter I saw Dean hobbling slightly. He looked physically stuffed and bewildered. His opponent was firing on all cylinders.
Just another couple of thoughts. Why do we keep selecting Fogarty? He is not capable of playing in a winning forward line. Finally, what do we do with Big H? He cannot win a contested mark and he certainly can't take a mark when the ball is lobbed on his head.
In conclusion, our football club is in trouble.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: MickyO on March 07, 2026, 08:40:06 pm
Lets all hold fire for a few weeks. Remember how terrible Hayes was in his first game with us? Then he became one of our most valued players.
We had players that didnt play last year, we have 5-6-7? New players. We have lost two important cogs in our wheel.
Surely with all eyes on what voss is doing, itd be identified by now that he is the issue?
This game was always set to see Sydney win for their CC marketing bs.
I think we need to take a breather and see what the next few weeks show. Obvs having Simpson there is our filler if and when voss gets the arse and i do agree that 3rd quarter run on is inexcusable.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 07, 2026, 09:13:37 pm
Lets all hold fire for a few weeks. Remember how terrible Hayes was in his first game with us? Then he became one of our most valued players.
We had players that didnt play last year, we have 5-6-7? New players. We have lost two important cogs in our wheel.
Surely with all eyes on what voss is doing, itd be identified by now that he is the issue?
This game was always set to see Sydney win for their CC marketing bs.
I think we need to take a breather and see what the next few weeks show. Obvs having Simpson there is our filler if and when voss gets the arse and i do agree that 3rd quarter run on is inexcusable.
I wouldn't be going with Simpson, agree we don't need to panic but the pressure is on now and every week is now going to be an audition for Voss to keep his job and that isn't going to help him or the team. If we can blow Richmond off the park and kick a big score we might be able to relieve some of that pressure and give Voss a couple of weeks breather from scrutiny.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 08, 2026, 07:03:59 am
That loss was squarely on the players (e.g. skipper was the prime offender), they went to water as soon as some pressure was applied. EOS.
Yes, it is on the players but it is also on the coaches.
IMHO no-one gets off free of accountability for that 2nd half 'effort.'
Vossy has entered his fifth year at the helm and yet we saw anothersecond half debacle... in fact, worse than many that preceded it over the years. Absolutely the same shambolic forward line and delivery into the forward line, even with different personnel!
Its up to the onfield leaders to arrest 3,4,5 goal runs. If the senior leaders cant see it and do anything about it then we may all pull up stumps and call it quits. The ruck and midfield division (perhaps Walsh aside) got utterly trounced from about the 5 min mark of the third qtr. As I said, I was sitting at ground level behind the fwd pocket where Syd were kicking to in the 3rd and we watched 12 goals sail over our heads, it was embarrassing. Only four from key fwds, the other 8 were all mids/smalls. The usual suspects, Heeney, McInerney, Warner and Gulden all tore us a new one especially McInerney.
There will be some serious soul searching this week amongst the playing group and a loss to Richmond for the second year in a row will be unforgivable. I'm sure the coaching group will take responsibility but that in my opinion gives the midfield group a big out. I'll say again that I question the fitness of our most of blokes, after half time they all looked to be sweating profusely compared to the Swans. It's been hot and humid up here since I've been here so I'm sure there was an acclimatisation issue. Our fitness guy is ex-Syd so he should have known the conditions I would have thought. Pretty sure it was at the 3 qtr time break, Syd players who had been on the bench were in the centre square doing run through drills FFS. Interesting to see how we back up this week.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 08, 2026, 08:48:17 am
Yes, it is on the players but it is also on the coaches.
IMHO no-one gets off free of accountability for that 2nd half 'effort.'
Vossy has entered his fifth year at the helm and yet we saw anothersecond half debacle... in fact, worse than many that preceded it over the years. Absolutely the same shambolic forward line and delivery into the forward line, even with different personnel!
Its up to the onfield leaders to arrest 3,4,5 goal runs. If the senior leaders cant see it and do anything about it then we may all pull up stumps and call it quits. The ruck and midfield division (perhaps Walsh aside) got utterly trounced from about the 5 min mark of the third qtr. As I said, I was sitting at ground level behind the fwd pocket where Syd were kicking to in the 3rd and we watched 12 goals sail over our heads, it was embarrassing. Only four from key fwds, the other 8 were all mids/smalls. The usual suspects, Heeney, McInerney, Warner and Gulden all tore us a new one especially McInerney.
There will be some serious soul searching this week amongst the playing group and a loss to Richmond for the second year in a row will be unforgivable. I'm sure the coaching group will take responsibility but that in my opinion gives the midfield group a big out. I'll say again that I question the fitness of our most of blokes, after half time they all looked to be sweating profusely compared to the Swans. It's been hot and humid up here since I've been here so I'm sure there was an acclimatisation issue. Our fitness guy is ex-Syd so he should have known the conditions I would have thought. Pretty sure it was at the 3 qtr time break, Syd players who had been on the bench were in the centre square doing run through drills FFS. Interesting to see how we back up this week.
Papley was doing run throughs after the game. ::)
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Baggers on March 08, 2026, 08:58:17 am
Yes, it is on the players but it is also on the coaches.
IMHO no-one gets off free of accountability for that 2nd half 'effort.'
Vossy has entered his fifth year at the helm and yet we saw anothersecond half debacle... in fact, worse than many that preceded it over the years. Absolutely the same shambolic forward line and delivery into the forward line, even with different personnel!
Its up to the onfield leaders to arrest 3,4,5 goal runs. If the senior leaders cant see it and do anything about it then we may all pull up stumps and call it quits. The ruck and midfield division (perhaps Walsh aside) got utterly trounced from about the 5 min mark of the third qtr. As I said, I was sitting at ground level behind the fwd pocket where Syd were kicking to in the 3rd and we watched 12 goals sail over our heads, it was embarrassing. Only four from key fwds, the other 8 were all mids/smalls. The usual suspects, Heeney, McInerney, Warner and Gulden all tore us a new one especially McInerney.
There will be some serious soul searching this week amongst the playing group and a loss to Richmond for the second year in a row will be unforgivable. I'm sure the coaching group will take responsibility but that in my opinion gives the midfield group a big out. I'll say again that I question the fitness of our most of blokes, after half time they all looked to be sweating profusely compared to the Swans. It's been hot and humid up here since I've been here so I'm sure there was an acclimatisation issue. Our fitness guy is ex-Syd so he should have known the conditions I would have thought. Pretty sure it was at the 3 qtr time break, Syd players who had been on the bench were in the centre square doing run through drills FFS. Interesting to see how we back up this week.
As I mentioned earlier, it's the first game of the season... an important caveat.
However... I get the alarm that our capitulation in the second half has an all too familiar ring to it. It was even worse than in previous years! It's like we have a collective PTSD after half time - fight, flight, freeze or fidget... we choose to freeze. Then we chose to fight, but in the wrong way, starting frustration fights.
The coaching group sets the strategy and attitude for the players to adopt when the opposition change things and/or the intensity. Our midfield group seemed bereft of ideas on what to do in the second half... that's strategy, personnel and above the shoulders. Apparently we can only play our 'brand' when the game is on our terms and the oppo doesn't do anything differently.
We should take a look at the Dishlickers last night, Brisvegas had them on the ropes but they (Dishlickers) never gave up and seemed to know exactly what to do... and they committed to their strategy with a passion, regardless of what the home team threw at them.
Seems the coaching group realize we have serious midfield issues sending Crippa forward for large spells. Our forward line, most of the night, seemed flatter than a witch's... And under pressure, we reverted to long bombs.
If we'd been beaten trying something new, you'd cut us some slack, but we were beaten by what we know... same old, same old.
Question is whether Vossy and the coaching group opt for the usual suspects (players) or be bold at the selection table for the Tiggers game? Can they admit that the midfield mix is far from right? Now is the time to be bold, not mid season.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Macca37 on March 08, 2026, 11:00:31 am
There is always some humidity in Sydney and the same applies in Brisbane. The Dogs were able to handle the conditions well enough to win. Just what is our problem? When the Tassie side enters the competition, will we be blaming the cold conditions in Hobart for any loss we have there?
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 08, 2026, 01:56:54 pm
There is always some humidity in Sydney and the same applies in Brisbane. The Dogs were able to handle the conditions well enough to win. Just what is our problem? When the Tassie side enters the competition, will we be blaming the cold conditions in Hobart for any loss we have there?
we are just unprofessional is my summation. Can't play for the club, cant play for the team, worried about individual performances rather than doing the team things i reckon. Then you get slippery, cold, wet, hot excuses.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 08, 2026, 07:03:14 pm
i have just got home after going to Sydney to see the game. I have read all the comments in this thread and my first comment is that I believe supporters are too quick in finding excuses for our team.
In the preliminary warmup about half an hour before the game, our players had no trouble kicking fifty metres or more towards the goal. I was impressed with Dean in the way he marked and passed the ball. There was no wind and conditions were perfect for football.
At half time I was happy with the way our players had applied pressure to the Swans causing them to make mistakes and restricting their scoring. Given the amount of time we had the ball in our forward line we should have been at least another two goals ahead.
The third quarter started, we kicked the first two goals, and then the wheels fell off. Grundy suddenly made our rucks look second rate, brought the Swans midfield into play, and we meekly capitulated. All the old faults surfaced: poor handballs, poor kicking to position, handballing and kicking to the Swans players. With so much self-imposed pressure and lack of discipline it was only matter of time before the Swans turned the game into a training run.
At three quarter time I didn't think things could get worse but they did. The last quarter was an embarrassment for Carlton supporters. The side lost structure and the Swans were able to attack in waves of three or more players from their backline all the way to their forward line without any resistance from our players. The Swans forward line was wide open with our backline players often 10 or fifteen metres away.
Early in the last quarter I saw Dean hobbling slightly. He looked physically stuffed and bewildered. His opponent was firing on all cylinders.
Just another couple of thoughts. Why do we keep selecting Fogarty? He is not capable of playing in a winning forward line. Finally, what do we do with Big H? He cannot win a contested mark and he certainly can't take a mark when the ball is lobbed on his head.
In conclusion, our football club is in trouble.
Agree on Fogarty and I'll add that yes conditions were close to perfect but it was hot humid and the ball appeared greasy. Syd handled those conditions a lot better. Ill also add that my future SIL has been working in Syd for the last couple of months and he confirmed its been extremely humid., just saying (its not what caused the 12 goal 3rd qtr).
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: PaulP on March 08, 2026, 07:09:24 pm
Listening to Tom Mitchell saying that we have changed game style plus a number of personnel, and that double whammy means it will take time to iron out the kinks and get some cohesion. I'm paraphrasing but it was words to that effect.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: PaulP on March 08, 2026, 07:18:10 pm
Mitchell also said the lack of on field leaders makes it harder to arrest opposition surges. Haynes, Newman and Cerra would’ve been handy.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Milhanna13 on March 09, 2026, 11:26:27 am
And the move to put williams in defence after looking settled in the F50 is yet another brain fart from the coaching group
i really dont understand this - he was really good last year, and seemed to have found his spot. creative, good finisher. i know ainsworth, Lij and Haywood have all come in, but surely we could still find room for him up forward. guys who can kick goals dont grow on trees
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 09, 2026, 01:54:59 pm
And the move to put williams in defence after looking settled in the F50 is yet another brain fart from the coaching group
i really dont understand this - he was really good last year, and seemed to have found his spot. creative, good finisher. i know ainsworth, Lij and Haywood have all come in, but surely we could still find room for him up forward. guys who can kick goals dont grow on trees
Agree..Its the only place Williams can play imo and I would have thought the idea would be to use Ainsworth a bit more in the midfield given his good kicking skills and the fact we got slaughtered there after half time. We need goals out of Williams and Ainsworth touching the ball more than 15-16 times a game imho.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 09, 2026, 02:58:48 pm
i really dont understand this - he was really good last year, and seemed to have found his spot. creative, good finisher. i know ainsworth, Lij and Haywood have all come in, but surely we could still find room for him up forward. guys who can kick goals dont grow on trees
Agree..Its the only place Williams can play imo and I would have thought the idea would be to use Ainsworth a bit more in the midfield given his good kicking skills and the fact we got slaughtered there after half time. We need goals out of Williams and Ainsworth touching the ball more than 15-16 times a game imho.
Im sure they'll find the right combination in the coming weeks.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 09, 2026, 07:27:01 pm
Couldnt help myself, watched the replay. First two quarters we closed the centre corridor and pushed them wide. We tackled well and applied pressure to force errors. After the 5 min mark of the 3rd and being 22 points up, Grundy, Gulden, Heeney, Warner Blakey and McInerny went absolutely nuts and tore us a new one. Thats 6 players who we kept quiet for 2 qtrs and 5 mins. McInerny appeared to playing on Kemp in the first half and was moved into the midfield and across HF kicking 3 important goals. Gulden got leather poisoning and no one went near him. Heeney found space at easy. Warner broke away every time he got the ball. Grundy got on top of our rucks. That was essentially the ball game.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: LP on March 09, 2026, 07:32:37 pm
Gulden got leather poisoning and no one went near him. Heeney found space at easy. Warner broke away every time he got the ball. Grundy got on top of our rucks. That was essentially the ball game.
Gulden's 1/2-game effort as the best I've seen in a long time, I notice the coaches thought otherwise, but I suspect Gulden will get 3 Brownlow votes.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 09, 2026, 08:19:48 pm
Gulden got leather poisoning and no one went near him. Heeney found space at easy. Warner broke away every time he got the ball. Grundy got on top of our rucks. That was essentially the ball game.
Gulden's 1/2-game effort as the best I've seen in a long time, I notice the coaches thought otherwise, but I suspect Gulden will get 3 Brownlow votes.
Yep.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 09, 2026, 10:23:41 pm
Garry and Gerard were very good in summing us up on 360. Lyon said it was due to the gap in the number of A graders between the two sides. Gerard said the "hyperventilating over Carlton" was nonsense. He said when the fixture came out, you would have had us at L W W W. Judge us after our next three not the the first one. GW said we should win the next 3 and we will be able to see what we have been working on. They talked about how we have sold off some high end talent to get in Harry this year, Cody next year and couple with Jagga, that's where the future lies. I thought they were very measured and sensible, worth watching If you can. As opposed to bozo's like Damo, Lloyd and McClure on FC, absolute pee brains.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: MickyO on March 09, 2026, 11:06:52 pm
Garry and Gerard were very good in summing us up on 360. Lyon said it was due to the gap in the number of A graders between the two sides. Gerard said the "hyperventilating over Carlton" was nonsense. He said when the fixture came out, you would have had us at L W W W. Judge us after our next three not the the first one. GW said we should win the next 3 and we will be able to see what we have been working on. They talked about how we have sold off some high end talent to get in Harry this year, Cody next year and couple with Jagga, that's where the future lies. I thought they were very measured and sensible, worth watching If you can. As opposed to bozo's like Damo, Lloyd and McClure on FC, absolute pee brains.
The quality of the footy shows has diluted so much I can barely watch any of them.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Milhanna13 on March 11, 2026, 11:50:14 am
Alistar Clarkson recently came out and said how to tough it is to drag a struggling team off the deck and how bottoming out will be a think of the past: Interesting comments on StKilda: "The game is as tough as it has ever been. You only need to go to Essendon, Richmond, West Coast, North Melbourne, a couple of others perhaps to see that. You see what's happened with St Kilda, it's nearly like you've got to do something absolutely out of the box radical to break this mould of getting yourself out of the bottom eight or 10 sides in the competition and give yourself a chance to get into the top part. https://www.afl.com.au/news/1471514/whats-realistic-in-a-rebuild-why-north-melbourne-kangaroos-coach-alastair-clarkson-says-bottoming-out-will-never-happen-again
Clarko making excuses to protect his legacy
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Baggers on March 11, 2026, 12:14:55 pm
Alistar Clarkson recently came out and said how to tough it is to drag a struggling team off the deck and how bottoming out will be a think of the past: Interesting comments on StKilda: "The game is as tough as it has ever been. You only need to go to Essendon, Richmond, West Coast, North Melbourne, a couple of others perhaps to see that. You see what's happened with St Kilda, it's nearly like you've got to do something absolutely out of the box radical to break this mould of getting yourself out of the bottom eight or 10 sides in the competition and give yourself a chance to get into the top part. https://www.afl.com.au/news/1471514/whats-realistic-in-a-rebuild-why-north-melbourne-kangaroos-coach-alastair-clarkson-says-bottoming-out-will-never-happen-again
Yep. Also an indictment on the AFLs free agency strategy.
Plus, v good blokes also see the northern states, particularly QLD, as attractive lifestyle options... even the Pussycats fall into the lifestyle category.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 11, 2026, 01:38:52 pm
^^
Not the AFL's fault that Melbourne has become a place that is not that desirable to live in anymore. Between the traffic, the volume of works, and sheer annoyance at all the reducing speed limits, parking times, and how much harder it is to get anything completed, its no surprise AFL players who have the means and the motivation to flee are.
This is where the clubs need to work hard to keep their players happy, and COVID did a number on Melbourne that it hasnt recovered from.
I do love where I live, but I dont live in inner city melbourne, and stay away from the city as much as possible. Perhaps thats why Hawthorn, St. Kilda, and Footscray are having a better time of attracting people lately.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 11, 2026, 01:51:30 pm
Not the AFL's fault that Melbourne has become a place that is not that desirable to live in anymore. Between the traffic, the volume of works, and sheer annoyance at all the reducing speed limits, parking times, and how much harder it is to get anything completed, its no surprise AFL players who have the means and the motivation to flee are.
This is where the clubs need to work hard to keep their players happy, and COVID did a number on Melbourne that it hasnt recovered from.
I do love where I live, but I dont live in inner city melbourne, and stay away from the city as much as possible. Perhaps thats why Hawthorn, St. Kilda, and Footscray are having a better time of attracting people lately.
Off topic but I went to Syd on the weekend, from a tourists point of view, it craps on Melb in every way (cleanliness, lack of graffiti, rough sleepers, drug affected people in the CBD, ease/availability of public transport). Im talking about the CBD of course, our CBD is a dive by comparison). You listening Mayor Reece?
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: ElwoodBlues1 on March 11, 2026, 02:21:04 pm
Not the AFL's fault that Melbourne has become a place that is not that desirable to live in anymore. Between the traffic, the volume of works, and sheer annoyance at all the reducing speed limits, parking times, and how much harder it is to get anything completed, its no surprise AFL players who have the means and the motivation to flee are.
This is where the clubs need to work hard to keep their players happy, and COVID did a number on Melbourne that it hasnt recovered from.
I do love where I live, but I dont live in inner city melbourne, and stay away from the city as much as possible. Perhaps thats why Hawthorn, St. Kilda, and Footscray are having a better time of attracting people lately.
Off topic but I went to Syd on the weekend, from a tourists point of view, it craps on Melb in every way (cleanliness, lack of graffiti, rough sleepers, drug affected people in the CBD, ease/availability of public transport). Im talking about the CBD of course, our CBD is a dive by comparison). You listening Mayor Reece?
Trains are really good in Sydney and having that station under the Airport is great, Roads and driving not so much...maniacs who hate Vic drivers and tolls everywhere.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: RiverRat on March 11, 2026, 02:32:33 pm
[/quote]Off topic but I went to Syd on the weekend, from a tourists point of view, it craps on Melb in every way (cleanliness, lack of graffiti, rough sleepers, drug affected people in the CBD, ease/availability of public transport). Im talking about the CBD of course, our CBD is a dive by comparison). You listening Mayor Reece? [/quote] Mayor Nick only listens to his left-wing mates and to himself when he is looking in the mirror - just another spin-merchant.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Milhanna13 on March 11, 2026, 03:39:42 pm
There is always some humidity in Sydney and the same applies in Brisbane. The Dogs were able to handle the conditions well enough to win. Just what is our problem? When the Tassie side enters the competition, will we be blaming the cold conditions in Hobart for any loss we have there?
we are just unprofessional is my summation. Can't play for the club, cant play for the team, worried about individual performances rather than doing the team things i reckon. Then you get slippery, cold, wet, hot excuses.
easy to say our fitness was a problem. but its amazing how slow and unfit you look when the other sides is just on one. they couldnt do a thing wrong, and you always look spent when you are chasing for 45mins.
i agree with all the comments about the lack of any tactical changes to try to arrest the slide in the 3rd q. but not sure we can blame it on fitness
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: kruddler on March 11, 2026, 03:49:09 pm
Not the AFL's fault that Melbourne has become a place that is not that desirable to live in anymore. Between the traffic, the volume of works, and sheer annoyance at all the reducing speed limits, parking times, and how much harder it is to get anything completed, its no surprise AFL players who have the means and the motivation to flee are.
This is where the clubs need to work hard to keep their players happy, and COVID did a number on Melbourne that it hasnt recovered from.
I do love where I live, but I dont live in inner city melbourne, and stay away from the city as much as possible. Perhaps thats why Hawthorn, St. Kilda, and Footscray are having a better time of attracting people lately.
You live close enough that you may have heard.
There was a stabbing/homicide at Mernda station the other day.
A group of 4 kids 15-18yos were picking on a 14 (or 15yo), trying to steal his phone and powerbank. A 22yo came to his aid and got stabbed and died. The 4 kids have been caught and been charged with homicide.
These occurances are getting more and more common and more and more closer to home.
Melbourne is going in the wrong direction.
......but at least we've got those machete bins. ::)
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Thryleon on March 11, 2026, 03:58:31 pm
^^ I liked it then realised, its poor taste to like it due to the impact.
:(
Those kids are jerks, the 22 year old a hero, but that's the shame in it, why go to anyone's aid when you become a casualty.
Far out, that's cooked and damn depressing. Its all too common unfortunately and I wonder if we havent bankrupt our society morally to benefit a few, and then end up with this result.
Then we wonder why guys arent committed to play for the club...
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Gointocarlton on March 11, 2026, 04:57:55 pm
we are just unprofessional is my summation. Can't play for the club, cant play for the team, worried about individual performances rather than doing the team things i reckon. Then you get slippery, cold, wet, hot excuses.
easy to say our fitness was a problem. but its amazing how slow and unfit you look when the other sides is just on one. they couldnt do a thing wrong, and you always look spent when you are chasing for 45mins.
i agree with all the comments about the lack of any tactical changes to try to arrest the slide in the 3rd q. but not sure we can blame it on fitness
If you looked at the vision Hirdy and Dermie showed on FC last night, it was pretty damning on the players IMO. First half they gave the swans no room at stoppages and centre ball ups. Second half was atrocious at the centre throw ups, that's on the players I'm affraid and their ability to stay with the structures for 120mins. Nothing to do with running, that comes afterwards. This was all about positioning of the mids at stoppages and opponent awareness. They showed a clip of Harry just letting Gulden waltz passed him at HF and just point to someone else, too late buddy, he was off to the races. Its attention to detail and discipline to maintain concentration for 120 mins. A friend of mine was sitting with one of the Swans players dad and when we got 22 points, he said to my mate "you got em". I reckon our blokes thought they'd done enough also.
Title: Re: AFL Rd 0 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Sydney
Post by: Lods on March 11, 2026, 05:54:54 pm
I read a post in another place. I have no idea of its true or not but...The poster said he had been sitting with one of our former assistant coaches and a former player. They had been sceptical of our chances. When we got to the 22 point lead he turned to the coach and player and said it looks like you were wrong. They just told him to wait...and sure enough.